CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
Search Results
Author : Carter, R.W.G.; Orford, J.D.; Jennings, S.C.; Shaw, J.; and Smith, J.P
Date : 1992
Title : Recent evolution of a paraglacial estuary under conditions of rapid sea level rise: Chezzetcook Inlet, Nova Scotia.
Publication : Proceedings, Geologists' Association
Issue : 103(3):
Page(s) : 167-185.
Abstract
The local response of estuaries to sea-level rise has received relatively little attention in the literature, despite the widespread use of estuarine deposits to establish marine/terrestrial index points for the interpretation of regional sea level curves. Chezzetcook Inlet in Nova Scotia is experiencing a relatively rapid rise in sea level (3.8 mm a "SUP -1" from 1920-70), resulting in widespread morphosedimentary adjustments. Sediment released from both soil erosion of the estuary catchment and from coastal erosion of drumlin cliffs is infilling the estuary. Material released by wave action from glacial diamicts is partitioned into coarse gravels and boulders, sand and silts, each component playing a role in the development of the estuary. Coarse material accumulates in outer gravel barriers which provide protection for the deposition of sands and silts in the lower estuary. In turn, these deposits create platforms instrumental in allowing barrier migration. The development of lateral sand spits and flood tide deltas is especially rapid, and may be linked to sea level changes. Textural analysis of vibracore sediments from both active and abandoned flood tide deltas, points to episodic sediment influx and remobilization over a period of 400-600 yrs, which may indicate breakdown phases in the outer barriers.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology