What This Document Is
This is a laboratory exercise designed for a Geomorphology course (GY 301) at the University of South Alabama, specifically focusing on the interconnected topics of groundwater and karst geomorphology. It’s a practical, map-based lab intended to build skills in interpreting landforms shaped by subsurface water processes. The lab utilizes topographic maps of various regions to analyze groundwater flow, water table configurations, and the characteristic features of karst landscapes.
Why This Document Matters
This lab is crucial for students studying geomorphology, hydrology, environmental science, or geology. It’s particularly valuable when you’re learning to connect geological formations with surface expressions, and understanding how human activities can impact groundwater resources. Students will benefit from working through these exercises when studying topics like landscape evolution, hydrogeology, and the challenges of land-use planning in areas with unique geological conditions. It’s best used *during* a geomorphology lab session to reinforce lecture material and develop practical map reading skills.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This lab requires access to specific topographic maps (Ashby, Nebraska; Pelican Lake, ND; and Interlachen, FL) which are *not* included within this resource. The exercises are designed to be completed within a 2-hour lab period, but success depends on focused work and potentially collaborating with classmates. The lab assumes a foundational understanding of topographic maps, contour lines, and basic hydrological principles. It does not provide introductory material on these concepts.
What This Document Provides
* Problem sets centered around interpreting groundwater conditions from topographic maps.
* Exercises focused on constructing water table contour maps and determining groundwater flow direction.
* Scenarios requiring analysis of potential groundwater contamination issues.
* Investigations into the geomorphological features indicative of karst topography, such as sinkholes and disappearing streams.
* A real-world application scenario involving engineering considerations in a karst landscape.
* Questions designed to promote critical thinking about the relationship between geology, hydrology, and land use.
