Hydro-bio-geomorphic controls on carbon storage in floodplains

This research aims to assess the spatial and temporal variability in carbon retention and preservation in floodplain sediments. This will be achieved by investigating several controls on potential carbon accumulation and storage: (1) variation in hydrological regime; (2) beaver presence; and (3) landslide sediment inputs; representing process domains in lower, middle and upper river reaches respectively. Carbon storage will be quantified relative to the temporal and spatial scales of the processes and feedbacks that drive accumulation of sediments and biomass. The stability of carbon stored in these depositional systems will be assessed to further constrain variability in floodplain carbon stocks through time.