Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID KY_2025_Arpin

Sediment transport dynamics in a fluviokarst system, south-central Kentucky

Institute: Kentucky
Year Established: 2025 Start Date: 2026-01-01 End Date: 2026-12-31
Total Federal Funds: $20,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $20,000

Principal Investigators: Sarah M. Arpin

Project Summary: Sediment, the most common pollutant in rivers and streams, also transports harmful contaminants such as nutrients, pesticides, and pathogens. In fluviokarst systems, where surface water and groundwater are closely linked, understanding how sediment moves is essential for protecting underground aquifers. However, most studies focus only on suspended sediment and use models to estimate transport, leaving gaps in our knowledge of how sediment behaves in these complex environments. This project focuses on Stillhouse Hollow, an isolated fluviokarst system in Mammoth Cave National Park, to measure both suspended and bedload sediment using high-resolution continuous monitoring. By tracking how sediment moves through the system, we aim to identify the primary factors driving sediment transport. Since climate change and changes in land use can greatly increase sediment transport, establishing a baseline of current conditions is critical. This information can help predict and mitigate future threats to water quality, aquatic ecosystems, and flood risks.