Valley And Channel Networks Extraction Based On Local Topographic Curvature And K-Means Clustering Of Contours

Keywords

channel cross section; channel network; curvature; DEM; LiDAR; valley network

Abstract

A method for automatic extraction of valley and channel networks from high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) is presented. This method utilizes both positive (i.e., convergent topography) and negative (i.e., divergent topography) curvature to delineate the valley network. The valley and ridge skeletons are extracted using the pixels' curvature and the local terrain conditions. The valley network is generated by checking the terrain for the existence of at least one ridge between two intersecting valleys. The transition from unchannelized to channelized sections (i.e., channel head) in each first-order valley tributary is identified independently by categorizing the corresponding contours using an unsupervised approach based on k-means clustering. The method does not require a spatially constant channel initiation threshold (e.g., curvature or contributing area). Moreover, instead of a point attribute (e.g., curvature), the proposed clustering method utilizes the shape of contours, which reflects the entire cross-sectional profile including possible banks. The method was applied to three catchments: Indian Creek and Mid Bailey Run in Ohio and Feather River in California. The accuracy of channel head extraction from the proposed method is comparable to state-of-the-art channel extraction methods.

Publication Date

10-1-2016

Publication Title

Water Resources Research

Volume

52

Issue

10

Number of Pages

8081-8102

Document Type

Article

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1002/2015WR018479

Socpus ID

84991690997 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84991690997

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