Eolian sediments

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2003

Publication Title

Developments in Quaternary Science

Abstract

Great progress has been made in the study of eolian sediments in North America since 1965. Some of the more exciting finds include uncovering the long eolian record preserved in the extensive loess of Alaska, better understanding of sources and timing of loess and sand dunes in the central U.S., better understanding of loess stratigraphy in the lower Mississippi valley, enhanced resolution of dune activity in the desert southwest U.S. and its relation to paleoclimate and paleohydrology, and better understanding of source areas, timing, and controls on loess accumulation linked to catastrophic flooding and environmental change in the Palouse loess of the Pacific Northwest. This progress has been made possible by technological advancements such as luminescence geochronology and by the collaboration of many scientists whose expertise spans multiple disciplines, including sedimentology, geomorphology, geochronology, pedology, and ecology. In the future, eolian researchers will tackle issues such as the poorly understood interactions between juxtaposed sand dune and loess systems like those in the Great Plains and the Palouse of the Pacific Northwest. Bodies of sand dunes and loess are often thought of as separate entities, but are sometimes linked by common sources and processes. Kocurek & Lancaster (1999) outlined a state theory for eolian sediment, defined by sediment supply, sediment availability, and transport capacity, which, if we could analyze these forcings simultaneously, might allow complete quantification of an eolian system. Understanding of eolian systems will continue to improve through such approaches, especially when attempting to calculate mass balances in open or closed eolian systems. Part of understanding mass balances lies in determination of source areas that may fluctuate in size, shape, and level of activity through time. Stratigraphic and geochemical fingerprinting techniques will help pinpoint sources and sinks. Once sources and sinks can be identified, the incorporation of field studies with enhanced computer simulations will aid in modeling eolian response to changing atmospheric circulation patterns and other climatic fluctuations. Attempts are being made to quantify natural vs. anthropogenic dust emissions in order to create global climate simulations that can forecast how dust emissions have affected climate in the past and how they may affect climate in the future. © 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Volume

1

Issue

C

First Page

275

Last Page

309

ISSN

15710866

DOI

10.1016/S1571-0866(03)01013-3

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