Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID AK_2025_002

Understanding Suspended Sediment Dynamics in the Tanana River: Combining Satellite Imagery and In-Situ Observations to Track Changes Over Time

Institute: Alaska
Year Established: 2025 Start Date: 2026-01-01 End Date: 2026-12-31
Total Federal Funds: $24,919 Total Non-Federal Funds: $24,919

Principal Investigators: Anna Costa

Project Summary: This project investigates suspended sediment concentration in the Tanana River, a key waterway in Alaska. Suspended sediment consists of fine particles carried by the water, which can affect fish health and water quality. Additionally, these sediments contribute to sand deposits that are valuable materials for construction purposes. In other cold regions, increasing glacier melt and permafrost thaw have caused a significant rise in sediment concentration in rivers. Similar trends are expected in Alaska, potentially affecting ecosystems, water quality, and economic activities. Despite its importance, data on sediment in Alaska's rivers is limited, hindering effective management. To address this, we will collect water samples from the Tanana River and combine them with satellite imagery to track sediment changes over time. The goal is to understand sediment seasonality and trends, aiding local communities and policymakers in making informed decisions on river management and conservation.