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- Title
- HIDING IN FLOODPLAIN SIGHT: HOW DOES FLOOD RISK INFORMATION AFFECT FLOOD RISK PERCEPTIONS AND MITIGATION BEHAVIORS?.
- Creator
- Amato, Ryan, Polsky, Colin, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Florida has 906,465 residential properties facing substantial flood risk, making it imperative to understand how the public may perceive and respond to this risk. Providing people with scientific information may not be enough to impact behavior and decrease losses from flood events. We show participants (n = 20) scientific flood risk graphics and ask behavioral questions to evaluate responses based on the rational actor paradigm (RAP), psychometric paradigm, and cultural theory. We find...
Show moreFlorida has 906,465 residential properties facing substantial flood risk, making it imperative to understand how the public may perceive and respond to this risk. Providing people with scientific information may not be enough to impact behavior and decrease losses from flood events. We show participants (n = 20) scientific flood risk graphics and ask behavioral questions to evaluate responses based on the rational actor paradigm (RAP), psychometric paradigm, and cultural theory. We find results consistent with the RAP in 48% of cases, primarily in low risk scenarios. Participants from high income households are more likely to make rational decisions (80%) than those from low income households (~37%). Feelings of dread potentially help explain 40% of deviations from the RAP, while trust in flood experts helps explain 85% of non-RAP cases. Future flood risk communication should incorporate dread and trust in experts into messaging considerations as rationality alone is insufficient.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2021
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013765
- Subject Headings
- Floods, Decision making, Risk perception
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Geochemical conditions and groundwater-surface interactions within a municipal well field in Miami-Dade County, Florida.
- Creator
- Antolino, Dominick J., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
This thesis presents a preliminary study on geochemical conditions within the Snapper Creek well field in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The study investigates the background groundwater chemistry within the Biscayne aquifer in order to provide information on the geochemical processes and water-rock interactions within the study site. In conjunction with hydraulic gradient information, major ion chemistry and deuterium and oxygen-18 data were used as environmental tracers to help describe the...
Show moreThis thesis presents a preliminary study on geochemical conditions within the Snapper Creek well field in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The study investigates the background groundwater chemistry within the Biscayne aquifer in order to provide information on the geochemical processes and water-rock interactions within the study site. In conjunction with hydraulic gradient information, major ion chemistry and deuterium and oxygen-18 data were used as environmental tracers to help describe the groundwater-surface water interactions between the well field and the Snapper Creek canal. Hydrologic data show there is potential for natural groundwater recharge from the canal within the shallow flow zone of the Biscayne aquifer and chemical data show evidence of canal-groundwater mixing within this zone. The limitations for the v environmental tracers employed within the study are addressed, as well as recommendations for further research involving natural geochemical tracers and groundwater-surface water interactions near municipal well fields. This study was part of a larger effort being conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey in order to assess municipal well field pumping effects on the Snapper Creek (C-2) canal.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3329830
- Subject Headings
- Groundwater flow, Simulations, Groundwater flow, Hydrogeology, Aquifiers
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A comparison of pixel based and object based vegetation community classification in the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge.
- Creator
- Barone, Dorianne M., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
Pixel based and object based vegetation community classification methods were performed using 30 meter spatial resolution Landsat satellite imagery of the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge), a remnant of the northern Everglades. Supervised classification procedures using maximum likelihood and parallelepiped algorithms were used to produce thematic maps with the following vegetation communities : wet prairie, sawgrass, cattail, tree island, brush, aquatic/open...
Show morePixel based and object based vegetation community classification methods were performed using 30 meter spatial resolution Landsat satellite imagery of the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge), a remnant of the northern Everglades. Supervised classification procedures using maximum likelihood and parallelepiped algorithms were used to produce thematic maps with the following vegetation communities : wet prairie, sawgrass, cattail, tree island, brush, aquatic/open water. Spectral data, as well as NDVI, texture and principal component data were used to produce vegetation community classification maps. The accuracy levels of the thematic maps produced were calculated and compared to one another. The pixel based approach using the parallelepiped classification algorithm on the spectral and NDVI dataset had the highest accuracy level. A generalized form of this classification using only three vegetation communities (all wet prairie, tree island/brush and aquatic/open water) was compared to a previously published classification which used 1987 SPOT imagery in order to extract information on possible vegetation community transitions that are occurring within the Refuge. Results of the study indicate that 30 meter spatial resolution may be useful for understanding broad vegetation community trends but not species level trends. Pixel based procedures provide a more accurate classification than object based procedures for this landscape when using 30 meter imagery. Lastly, since 1987 there may be a trend of tree island/brush communities replacing wet prairie communities in the northern part of the Refuge and a transition to wet prairie communities in place of tree island/brush communities in the southern portion of the Refuge.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/58002
- Subject Headings
- Ecosystem management, Vegetation dynamics, Vegetation classification, Spatial ecology, Mathematical models
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Mapping the Fresh-Saltwater Transition Zone Across the Beach Environment Using Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR).
- Creator
- Becker, Joseph Michael, Roberts Briggs, Tiffany, Comas, Xavier, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
As sea level rises, saltwater migration can threaten coastal ecosystems and beach-dune environments, which negatively impacts coastal flora. This study uses ground penetrating radar (GPR) to evaluate the spatiotemporal variability of saltwater migration in the near shore at high lateral resolution (i.e. cm) by using daily micro tidal cycles as analogs to infer saltwater migration. Time-lapse GPR profiles were collected at low and high tide capturing phase lags of the tidal flux through...
Show moreAs sea level rises, saltwater migration can threaten coastal ecosystems and beach-dune environments, which negatively impacts coastal flora. This study uses ground penetrating radar (GPR) to evaluate the spatiotemporal variability of saltwater migration in the near shore at high lateral resolution (i.e. cm) by using daily micro tidal cycles as analogs to infer saltwater migration. Time-lapse GPR profiles were collected at low and high tide capturing phase lags of the tidal flux through different substrates. GPR measurements were collected at two sites in Miami with contrasting lithologies: a) Crandon Park, composed of unconsolidated sand; and b) the Barnacle Historic State Park, composed of the Miami Limestone Formation. Laboratory-scale GPR measurements were collected over samples mimicking field conditions. The results may be helpful to identify regions vulnerable to saltwater migration in the near shore based on lithological variability, and to mitigate negative impacts for flora in beach-dune habitats during sea level rise.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013183
- Subject Headings
- Ground penetrating radar, Saltwaters, Seashore ecology, Coastal ecology
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Population projection methods: A critique for minor civil divisions.
- Creator
- Benedict, Craig Neil., Florida Atlantic University, Schultz, Ronald R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
This paper presents a comprehensive population projection framework for small area population estimates and projections. Interested professionals can learn a progression of research tasks and considerations that will lead to the development of a reliable projection model. This monograph offers a range of technical aspects from simple non-component to more complex component methodologies. The idiosyncrasies of small area projections will be emphasized. There exists a significant demand for...
Show moreThis paper presents a comprehensive population projection framework for small area population estimates and projections. Interested professionals can learn a progression of research tasks and considerations that will lead to the development of a reliable projection model. This monograph offers a range of technical aspects from simple non-component to more complex component methodologies. The idiosyncrasies of small area projections will be emphasized. There exists a significant demand for simple, relevant substate population projections. Local public and private planning sectors have suffered from the irrelevance of national projection models. This thesis illuminates the data requirements, techniques and practical considerations in the choice of a population projection model. Local government's comprehensive plans, according to Florida law, must analyze existing conditions and project future needs based on population projections. Many pragmatic applications of population projections can lead to the effective implementation of comprehensive plans.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1990
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/14679
- Subject Headings
- Population forecasting--Florida, Population forecasting--Models
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- VISUAL RESOURCE ASSESSMENT: A COMPARISON OF TWO APPROACHES.
- Creator
- BERNSTEIN, ARLA GAIL., Florida Atlantic University, Schultz, Ronald R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
This thesis investigates and applies methods for evaluating the visual landscape for scenic and recreational purposes. Two specific approaches--the METLAND (quantitative) approach and the McHarg (qualitative) approach--are applied to a case study of two sites in Broward County, Florida. Data sources for the study include Florida Land Use and Cover Classification maps, the Vegetation Inventory for Broward County, and a survey of professional evaluators. Visual resource assessment of these...
Show moreThis thesis investigates and applies methods for evaluating the visual landscape for scenic and recreational purposes. Two specific approaches--the METLAND (quantitative) approach and the McHarg (qualitative) approach--are applied to a case study of two sites in Broward County, Florida. Data sources for the study include Florida Land Use and Cover Classification maps, the Vegetation Inventory for Broward County, and a survey of professional evaluators. Visual resource assessment of these sites is illustrated through a step by step process and should provide a basis for future assessment of additional sites. The McHarg approach is found to be more expeditious for small scale studies, while the METLAND approach is more efficient for multi-objective or regional analysis. Also, the METLAND quantitative approach increases the objectivity of assessment. The final chapter evaluates the two approaches used and provides recommendations for future research in the area of visual resource assessment.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1982
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/14104
- Subject Headings
- Landscape assessment
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Reconstructing the Late Holocene History of Human Activity and Climate from a Costa Rican Diatom Record.
- Creator
- Bitting, Madeleine, Johanson, Erik, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
This project expands on the 4200-year history of Laguna Los Mangos by adding diatom analysis to existing records of pollen, charcoal, elemental composition, and stable light isotope analysis. Diatoms were counted in peroxide-treated samples, and data were analyzed using cluster analysis, PCA, CCA, and Pearson correlation. Diatom variability was correlated with nitrogen and organic material. Before 3430 cal yr BP, diatoms reflect landscape instability with higher lake levels and macrophyte...
Show moreThis project expands on the 4200-year history of Laguna Los Mangos by adding diatom analysis to existing records of pollen, charcoal, elemental composition, and stable light isotope analysis. Diatoms were counted in peroxide-treated samples, and data were analyzed using cluster analysis, PCA, CCA, and Pearson correlation. Diatom variability was correlated with nitrogen and organic material. Before 3430 cal yr BP, diatoms reflect landscape instability with higher lake levels and macrophyte cover. This period was followed by a period of agriculture-induced nutrient pollution, reduced pH, and increased precipitation until about 2450 cal yr BP. Peaks in A. granulata may indicate periods of increased mixing driven by precipitation. Diatom composition reflects reduced agricultural activity and lake desiccation during the TCD and increased precipitation and agricultural collapse during the LIA. Overall, this record reflects a history of slightly alkaline, eutrophic conditions, increasing salinity, and human disturbance from maize agriculture and deforestation.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2021
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013782
- Subject Headings
- Diatoms, Paleoclimatology--Holocene, Paleoecology--Holocene
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Examining the relationship between urban green space and sustainable cities.
- Creator
- Bloise, Gillian., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
Urban green space plays a vital role in the stability of the environment. Green spaces are increasingly becoming an integral part of the efforts to promote sustainability because of the different areas of benefits they provide. Sustainable city ranking systems were used to identify the most sustainable urban extents within the US. Landsat TM 4-5 imagery and textural classification are used as techniques in identifying, classifying and analyzing urban green spaces within nineteen urban extents...
Show moreUrban green space plays a vital role in the stability of the environment. Green spaces are increasingly becoming an integral part of the efforts to promote sustainability because of the different areas of benefits they provide. Sustainable city ranking systems were used to identify the most sustainable urban extents within the US. Landsat TM 4-5 imagery and textural classification are used as techniques in identifying, classifying and analyzing urban green spaces within nineteen urban extents. Patch analyst was used to analyze the location, structure and fragmentation green spaces within each urban extent. The aim is to determine to what degree urban green spaces can be considered to be an integral part of the sustainability of sustainable urban extents across the US and ascertain whether or not more sustainable urban extents do have more urban green spaces. The results of the study have shown that urban extents that are ranked highly v on sustainable ranking systems do not necessarily have to have large proportion of green spaces. Results have also shown that urban extents that are ranked high on sustainable rankings will not necessarily be affected by increase in population or decrease in urban green space. Finally human modified green spaces have simple geometric shapes compared to natural unaltered green spaces that have more complex geometric shapes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3360771
- Subject Headings
- City planning, Environmental aspects, Urbanization, Environmental aspects, Urban ecology (Sociology), Human ecology, Sustainable development, Urban beautification
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- High Spatial Resolution Measurements Using Hydrogeophysical Methods Reveal the Presence of Hotspots forBbiogenic Gas Accumulation and Release in the Florida Everglades.
- Creator
- Bole, Troy, Comas, Xavier, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
It is well known that biogenic gas emissions (mainly methane and carbon dioxide) vary both spatially and temporally in peatlands. While most studies have focused on northern systems, several recent studies in tropical and subtropical peatlands (like the Everglades) have revealed the presence of areas of increased gas accumulation and emissions, or hotspots, that may be related to physical and/or biogeochemical changes within the peat's matrix. However, these studies are often limited in terms...
Show moreIt is well known that biogenic gas emissions (mainly methane and carbon dioxide) vary both spatially and temporally in peatlands. While most studies have focused on northern systems, several recent studies in tropical and subtropical peatlands (like the Everglades) have revealed the presence of areas of increased gas accumulation and emissions, or hotspots, that may be related to physical and/or biogeochemical changes within the peat's matrix. However, these studies are often limited in terms of sampling volume and resolution or are based in laboratory studies that may not be totally representative of field conditions. In this study we investigate the spatial variability (both lateral and vertical) in gas accumulation and release at the field scale, over 10 m long transects at two locations in Water Conservation Area 1 of the Florida Everglades, using an array of hydrogeophysical methods. Resulting data infers the presence of hotspots with dimensions ranging from 1-2 m in width and approximately 0.5 m tall. These areas showed high variations in biogenic gas accumulation and release an order of magnitude higher than surrounding areas and occur seasonally as the highest gas releases were observed during Florida’s wet season. This study therefore has implications for better understanding the spatial and temporal variability of biogenic gas hotspots in peat soils, and how the matrix structure affects gas accumulation and release. This study shows the importance of considering the heterogenous nature of the peat's matrix when quantifying gas fluxes in the Everglades, and particularly when using methods with small sampling volumes like gas chambers.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013189
- Subject Headings
- Everglades (Fla. ), Biogenic gas, Peatlands, Measurement
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Perceived risk versus actual risk to sea-level rise: a case study in Broward County, Florida.
- Creator
- Bolter, Keren P., Hindle, Tobin, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
Global climate change stressors downscale to specific local vulnerabilities, requiring customized adaptation strategies. Southeast Florida has a high likelihood of sealevel rise impact to due to the low-lying porous limestone geology. High risk is coupled with high exposure due to high-valued coastal properties, productive ecosystems, and dense populations. Coastal populations are particularly at risk due to erosion, inundation and storm surge, but interior populations are also susceptible to...
Show moreGlobal climate change stressors downscale to specific local vulnerabilities, requiring customized adaptation strategies. Southeast Florida has a high likelihood of sealevel rise impact to due to the low-lying porous limestone geology. High risk is coupled with high exposure due to high-valued coastal properties, productive ecosystems, and dense populations. Coastal populations are particularly at risk due to erosion, inundation and storm surge, but interior populations are also susceptible to rising water tables and extended periods of inundation. All of these impacts are amplified by sea-level rise. Robust sea-level rise adaptation options require significant economic costs. If perceived risk does not adequately line up with actual risk, lack of funds and preparation will prevent implementation of the most effective strategies.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004268, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004268
- Subject Headings
- Climatic changes -- Florida -- Broward County -- Case studies, Coastal ecology -- Florida -- Broward County -- Case studies, Coastal zone management -- Florida -- Broward County -- Case studies, Hazardous geographic environments -- Florida -- Broward County -- Case studies, Sea level -- Florida -- Broward County -- Case studies
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Mapping urban growth in Boca Raton Florida, over a thirty year period.
- Creator
- Breary, Gillian., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
The rapid increase of urban growth is a major issue for many regions around the world, which result in astounding loss in farmlands and increase in population densities. It important that urban growth be monitored as it will aid the local government in implementing the appropriate measures for a growing population. The city of Boca Raton, Florida, is the case study for this research. A multi-temporal analysis is done of five Landsat satellite images over a thirty year time period, 1973-2002....
Show moreThe rapid increase of urban growth is a major issue for many regions around the world, which result in astounding loss in farmlands and increase in population densities. It important that urban growth be monitored as it will aid the local government in implementing the appropriate measures for a growing population. The city of Boca Raton, Florida, is the case study for this research. A multi-temporal analysis is done of five Landsat satellite images over a thirty year time period, 1973-2002. Textural analysis was performed on each of the images, to delineate the urban areas. Three by-products resulted from the textural analysis: time series tinted overlays, dasymetric mapping and a series of animated maps, showing the movement of growth across the landscape through time. All the resulting products of the time series analysis were used to show the magnitude and direction of growth over time.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/172668
- Subject Headings
- Urbanization, Cities and towns, Community development, Urban, Regional planning
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Alternative uses for urban landfill sites as illustrated by the city of Lake Worth, Florida.
- Creator
- Breese, Edgar Floyd., Florida Atlantic University, Schultz, Ronald R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
-
Today, many municipalities are confronted with a situation whereby their landfills are facing mandatory closure. The topic of post-closure uses for these sites is addressed in this paper through a review of other closed sites and an indepth analysis of the two study sites in Lake Worth, Florida. The review of converted sites indicates a strong preference of municipalities to transform these trash sites into recreational facilities. The indepth analysis of the two study sites involved an...
Show moreToday, many municipalities are confronted with a situation whereby their landfills are facing mandatory closure. The topic of post-closure uses for these sites is addressed in this paper through a review of other closed sites and an indepth analysis of the two study sites in Lake Worth, Florida. The review of converted sites indicates a strong preference of municipalities to transform these trash sites into recreational facilities. The indepth analysis of the two study sites involved an examination of the closure restrictions, inherent characteristics of landfills including the creation of methane gas, possible groundwater contamination and settlement of the waste, and inventory of surrounding land uses including history and current site conditions. This analysis concluded that a recreational conversion at both sites was not only feasible but the best use for the two sites resulting in the development of two conceptual plans for each location.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1988
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/14430
- Subject Headings
- Land use, Urban--Florida--Lake Worth, Sanitary landfills--Florida--Lake Worth
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- NITROGEN ENRICHMENT, EUTROPHICATION, AND BOTTOM-UP TROPHIC SHIFTS IN ECOSYSTEMS OF THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON.
- Creator
- Brewton, Rachel A., Lapointe, Brian, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Eutrophication of urbanized estuaries is a global issue that continues to worsen as coastal development increases. The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) on Florida’s east-central coast is a eutrophic estuary that is experiencing harmful algal blooms of macroalgae and phytoplankton, as well as widespread seagrass losses. This is concerning as seagrasses provide many ecosystem services, including the provision of essential habitat. These alterations in benthic cover can have ecosystem level effects and...
Show moreEutrophication of urbanized estuaries is a global issue that continues to worsen as coastal development increases. The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) on Florida’s east-central coast is a eutrophic estuary that is experiencing harmful algal blooms of macroalgae and phytoplankton, as well as widespread seagrass losses. This is concerning as seagrasses provide many ecosystem services, including the provision of essential habitat. These alterations in benthic cover can have ecosystem level effects and require further investigation. Thus, drivers and effects of primary producer alterations in the IRL were investigated through analysis of long-term monitoring data, field surveys of faunal densities inhabiting macroalgae and bare bottom habitats, and stable nitrogen isotope (δ15N) analyses of primary producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers. Long-term monitoring data from the northern IRL (NIRL) and Banana River Lagoon (BR) demonstrated there have been major seagrass losses coupled with increases in occurrence of the rhizophytic green macroalgae Caulerpa prolifera, which is now the dominant benthic cover in many locations. Multivariate analyses of long-term monitoring data spanning 2011-2020 suggested that the carbon to phosphorus ratio (C:P) of macroalgae is an important factor related to annual changes in benthic cover in the NIRL and BR; increased P-availability is correlated with these primary producer shifts. In situ collections of macroinvertebrates and resident fishes showed the current function and importance of macroalgae as habitat in the NIRL and BR, particularly in the relative absence of seagrass.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2023
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014231
- Subject Headings
- Indian River (Fla. : Lagoon), Estuarine eutrophication, Nitrogen, Harmful Algal Bloom, Estuarine ecology
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- QUANTIFICATION OF PERMAFROST THAW DEPTH AND SNOW DEPTH IN INTERIOR ALASKA AT MULTIPLE SCALES USING FIELD, AIRBORNE, AND SPACEBORNE DATA.
- Creator
- Brodylo, David, Zhang, Caiyun, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Much of Interior Alaska contains permafrost, which is a permanently frozen layer found within or at the surface of the Earth. Historically, this permafrost has experienced relative stability, with limited thaw during warmer summer months and fire events. However, largely due to the impact of a warming climate, among other factors, permafrost that would typically experience limited thawing during the summer season has recently been thawing at an unprecedented rate. Trapped by this layer of...
Show moreMuch of Interior Alaska contains permafrost, which is a permanently frozen layer found within or at the surface of the Earth. Historically, this permafrost has experienced relative stability, with limited thaw during warmer summer months and fire events. However, largely due to the impact of a warming climate, among other factors, permafrost that would typically experience limited thawing during the summer season has recently been thawing at an unprecedented rate. Trapped by this layer of permafrost is a large quantity of carbon (C), which could be released into the atmosphere as greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). Due to the remoteness of the Arctic, there is a lack of yearly recorded permafrost thaw depth and snow depth values across much of the region. As such, the focus of this research was to establish a framework to identify how permafrost thaw depth and snow depth can be predicted across both a 1 km2 local scale and a 100 km2 regional scale in Interior Alaska by a combination of 1 m2 field data, airborne and spaceborne remote sensing products, and object-based machine learning techniques from 2014 – 2022. Machine learning techniques Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, k-Nearest Neighbor, Multiple Linear Regression, and Ensemble Analysis were applied to predict the permafrost thaw depth and snow depth. Results indicated that this methodology was able to successfully upscale both the 1 m2 field permafrost thaw depth and snow depth data to a 1 km2 local scale before successfully further upscaling the estimated results to a 100 km2 regional scale, while also linking the estimated values with ecotypes. The best results were produced by Ensemble Analysis, which tended to have the highest Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient, alongside the lowest Mean Absolute Error and Root Mean Square Error. Both Random Forest and k-Nearest Neighbor also provided encouraging results. The presence or absence of a thick canopy cover was strongly connected with thaw depth and snow depth estimates. Image resolution was an important factor when upscaling field data to the local scale, however it was overall less critical for further upscaling to the regional scale.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2023
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014229
- Subject Headings
- Permafrost--Alaska, Remote sensing, Machine learning
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- COASTAL SYSTEM VARIABILITY OF THE BEACH-NEARSHORE ENVIRONMENT FROM NATURAL AND ANTHROPOGENIC INFLUENCES.
- Creator
- Brown, Nicholas, Briggs, Tiffany Roberts, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
-
The coastal system provides habitat, storm protection, and economic value. In particular, Florida’s beaches are subject to chronic coastal erosion resulting from natural and anthropogenic influences. The most common mitigation response is the nature-based solution of beach nourishment. While this method is widely considered effective, quantifying changes from the dredge and placement on the physical environment is critical to ensure best management practices. The first step in addressing the...
Show moreThe coastal system provides habitat, storm protection, and economic value. In particular, Florida’s beaches are subject to chronic coastal erosion resulting from natural and anthropogenic influences. The most common mitigation response is the nature-based solution of beach nourishment. While this method is widely considered effective, quantifying changes from the dredge and placement on the physical environment is critical to ensure best management practices. The first step in addressing the need to identify gaps in knowledge relating to natural and human-induced changes to the continental shelf, a comprehensive literature review of the US East and Gulf coast continental shelves was conducted identifying needs for more expansive sand searches, a greater understanding of storm impacts on shelf morphodynamics, planning for long-term use of offshore sediment sources, and the impact of dredging on habitats. This study then evaluated the northern Palm Beach County beaches adjacent to the Jupiter Inlet over multiple years to understand the effects of natural and human influence on the morphology and sedimentology of the beach-nearshore environment. Beach sediment was coarser near the Inlet and finer downdrift (south). Seasonal changes in the nearshore from storms decreased the grain size and eroded beaches, whereas nourishment increased grain size and expanded beach width. Influences of physical characteristics of the beach-nearshore environment on the ecosystem were examined based on two important marine species: loggerhead sea turtles and blacktip sharks. No adverse impacts from restoration activities were found on loggerhead reproductive success. However, the active 2020 hurricane season resulted in lower reproductive success metrics. The blacktip shark migration coincides with the typical nourishment construction window. High turbidity in the nearshore was documented in association with multiple nourishment events during the two-year study. The blacktip sharks were quantified in the nearshore south of the nourishment; however, whether the turbidity was influencing the shark aggregates or habitat preference remains unknown. These results support numerous benefits of beach nourishment but suggest further research is needed to evaluate how project construction may impact nearshore fauna. The findings of this study are important for coastal managers who may consider reviewing best management practices of the beach-nearshore system.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2022
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013982
- Subject Headings
- Coastal zone management, Beach nourishment, Coastal zone management--Florida
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Use of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) in a Study on Beach Morphodynamics at Red Reef Beach, Boca Raton, Florida.
- Creator
- Camara dos Santos Porto, Sabrina, Briggs, Tiffany Roberts, Comas, Xavier, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
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The internal architecture of a beach system can provide clues into the processes involved in its formation, including depositional processes, and/or driving mechanisms (Billy et al., 2014). Several unique events such as cold fronts or Hurricane Irma caused conditions that resulted in erosion and accretion changes in Red Reef Beach - Boca Raton, throughout the year of 2017. Since the lateral extent of these changes is difficult to evaluate using traditional methods such as coring, a Ground...
Show moreThe internal architecture of a beach system can provide clues into the processes involved in its formation, including depositional processes, and/or driving mechanisms (Billy et al., 2014). Several unique events such as cold fronts or Hurricane Irma caused conditions that resulted in erosion and accretion changes in Red Reef Beach - Boca Raton, throughout the year of 2017. Since the lateral extent of these changes is difficult to evaluate using traditional methods such as coring, a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) was tested, which allows for a good lateral resolution (cm scale), to image the distribution and evolution of these sediments. The objectives of this study were to 1) explore the lateral variability in the internal architecture of sediments in Red Reef beach in Boca Raton (FL) using an array of ground penetrating radar (GPR) measurements constrained with coring and sediment analysis; 2) explore how dynamics of erosion and accretion induced by changes in wave activity and related to tide variation and storm events, may affect surface topography and the sedimentary internal architecture of beach deposits, using RTK GPS and GPR time-lapse measurements; 3) to explore changes in the lateral extent of the freshsaltwater interface along the beach profile in relation to tide variation and storm events. Reflectors identified in the GPR images showed some evidence of erosional and accretionary surfaces preserved in Red Reef beach. These measurements were repeated over time coinciding with certain events (such as Hurricane Irma) to explore their effects in terms of sediment erosion and accretion as reflected in changes in topography (using time-lapse GPS-RTK measurements), and changes in the internal sedimentary architecture (using time-lapse GPR measurements). The datasets collected also revealed the temporal evolution of the salt-freshwater interface, showing how the lateral extent of saltwater saturated sediment (inferred from areas of GPR signal attenuation along the profiles) evolved over time. This study shows the potential of GPR to provide information about beach sediment processes and dynamics at resolutions beyond traditional measurements (such as coring). It also shows the importance of combining methods that are complementary, such as the use of RTK GPS to explore changes in topography, and GPR that provides information on subsurface sedimentary architecture and the mechanism of change such as post-storm recovery. This study has implications for better understanding changes in coastal sedimentary deposits and processes, both at the subsurface, particularly after high-energy events, such as hurricanes, that result in rapid changes in erosion and/or accretion of sediments.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005947
- Subject Headings
- Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University, Beaches--Florida, Ground penetrating radar., Sediments (Geology)--Analysis.
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- MIGRATION TO SOUTHEAST FLORIDA, 1965-70.
- Creator
- CAMARCO, THOMAS JOSEPH, JR., Florida Atlantic University, Schultz, Ronald R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
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The objective of this thesis was to understand and model the patterns of internal migration to Southeast Florida in terms of spatial, demographic, social, economic, and climatic factors. First, a review of migration theory and research was made. Second, migration is described in terms of the total components of population change in Southeast Florida. Third, aggregate migration, i.e., migration flows, are described and then modeled in gravity model formulations. Fourth, the proportion of...
Show moreThe objective of this thesis was to understand and model the patterns of internal migration to Southeast Florida in terms of spatial, demographic, social, economic, and climatic factors. First, a review of migration theory and research was made. Second, migration is described in terms of the total components of population change in Southeast Florida. Third, aggregate migration, i.e., migration flows, are described and then modeled in gravity model formulations. Fourth, the proportion of migrants, i.e., migration rates, are described and modeled using multiple linear regression and principle components analysis. Finally the results obtained are conceptualized in terms of the migrant's decision to migrate to Southeast Florida.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1976
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/13780
- Subject Headings
- Migration, Internal--Florida
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- PLANNING IMPLICATIONS OF THE DIFFERENCES AMONG SQUATTER SETTLEMENTS: THECASE OF THE CARACAS BARRIOS.
- Creator
- CAMPBELL, MARIA INES., Florida Atlantic University, Tata, Robert J., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
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This thesis analyzes the characteristics of squatter settlements in Latin America and their potential for improvement. Some of the extensive literature on this subject is reviewed with the purpose of achieving insights into the special case of the Caracas barrios (Venezuelan low-income settlements, in their majority populated by squatters). An empirical analysis is carried out of several variables relating to physical development characteristics of the barrios. A Principal Components...
Show moreThis thesis analyzes the characteristics of squatter settlements in Latin America and their potential for improvement. Some of the extensive literature on this subject is reviewed with the purpose of achieving insights into the special case of the Caracas barrios (Venezuelan low-income settlements, in their majority populated by squatters). An empirical analysis is carried out of several variables relating to physical development characteristics of the barrios. A Principal Components technique with Varimax rotation combined with regression analysis shows the diversity of the barrios and the importance of government approval in the upgrading of housing in these urban areas. These findings are important to planners for the prioritization and allocation of resources.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1984
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/14209
- Subject Headings
- City planning--Case studies, Squatter settlements--Venezuela--Caracas, Caracas (Venezuela)--Poor
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Morphology of Astarte borealis (Mollusca: bivalvia) of Camden bay, northern Alaska.
- Creator
- Chrpa, Michelle E., Oleinik, Anton E., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Abstract/Description
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The genus Astarte is known for variable shell morphology and polymorphism within living and fossil species. Astarte borealis, the most common living species, is recognizable and common among mid-to-high latitude North Pacific, Arctic Ocean and North Atlantic waters, and has been divided into many subspecies and varieties based on overall shell shape. A collection of recent A. borealis specimens from Camden Bay, northern Alaska (641 specimens) with outline intact were used for analyses....
Show moreThe genus Astarte is known for variable shell morphology and polymorphism within living and fossil species. Astarte borealis, the most common living species, is recognizable and common among mid-to-high latitude North Pacific, Arctic Ocean and North Atlantic waters, and has been divided into many subspecies and varieties based on overall shell shape. A collection of recent A. borealis specimens from Camden Bay, northern Alaska (641 specimens) with outline intact were used for analyses. Bivariate analysis of height vs. length and morphometric analysis of shell outline determined variants within a population of A. borealis, and then compared to Pliocene A. borealis and Oligocene A. martini. The computer program SHAPE uses elliptic Fourier coefficients of shell outline to evaluate and visualize shape variations. The multivariate outline analysis indicates that A. borealis intraspecies variation is based upon a common shape that grades into other shapes, rather than grade between two or more end-forms.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA0004010
- Subject Headings
- Bivalves -- Alaska -- Camden Bay -- Geographical distribution, Mollusks, Fossil -- Alaska -- Camden Bay -- Morphology
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- SHALLOW-WATER ENCRUSTERS AND THE TAPHONOMY OF THE HOLOCENE STORM RIDGE OFF POMPANO BEACH, BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA.
- Creator
- Ciesinski, Carson Park, Oleinik, Anton, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Geosciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
- Abstract/Description
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Encrusters have a proven history as indicators of environmental conditions in nearshore habitats and are useful in both ecological and paleoenvironmental research within benthic ecosystems. Off the coast of Pompano Beach, Florida, a Holocene storm deposit contains large accumulations of subfossil Acropora palmata fragments with these same encrusting organisms attached to their surfaces. The objective of this research was to create an inventory of encrusters found within the storm deposit and...
Show moreEncrusters have a proven history as indicators of environmental conditions in nearshore habitats and are useful in both ecological and paleoenvironmental research within benthic ecosystems. Off the coast of Pompano Beach, Florida, a Holocene storm deposit contains large accumulations of subfossil Acropora palmata fragments with these same encrusting organisms attached to their surfaces. The objective of this research was to create an inventory of encrusters found within the storm deposit and document their successional outgrowth to determine the post-depositional history of sampled coral fragments. Foraminifera and coralline algae were the most common species found, and various sequences of successional outgrowth were observed that indicated fragments were either deposited gradually, immediately buried, or reworked after initial burial. This information is vital for understanding modern biodiversity on the Pompano coast, and the development of nearshore benthic marine ecosystems during the mid-late Holocene.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2023
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014344
- Subject Headings
- Taphonomy, Corals, Acropora palmata, Pompano Beach (Fla.), Environmental sciences
- Format
- Document (PDF)