Dynamics and Vulnerability of Delta Systems - loicz

• Beyond scale, do small deltas function differently from large deltas, particularly in their
hydrological-biogeochemical-ecological dynamics? How best to combine sediment transport
system functions across different timescales? Can the models mimic delta self-organization?
• Can we quantify the role of deltas as carbon sinks? What role will Arctic deltas play in
buffering old carbon from permafrost to be transported to the ocean?
• How can baseline conditions for deltas serve as a reference for measuring human impact?
Fig. 4.1: High Arctic Colville River close to the apex of the Colville delta, water and sediment load of this river is
changing under influence of Arctic warming. (Photo: Irina Overeem).
4.3 Assessment of Human Influence on Delta Dynamics
Human impacts are now overwhelming natural processes, and assessment of modern delta
dynamics can not be done without quantifying where humans live, how they behave and how
they change delta controls and delta state. Humans desire stability for management and have
devised strategies to tame the dynamical behavior of deltas by hydraulic and coastal engineering.
However, humans now simultaneously accelerate and decelerate fluxes of water and particles on
a scale that exceeds natural fluxes (Syvitski et al. 2005b). Unintentionally, human actions are
deteriorating delta systems. Quantitative mapping the human influences on deltas and enhancing
our understanding of human dimensions is a critical piece of an integrated delta research and
management framework.
• Where on deltas do people live, how do they live there, and why do they live in those locations
in those ways? What are the different livelihood systems in the poorest deltas? How do
humans and societies shape, and how are they shaped by, their delta environment?
• How do different cultures, value systems, and interests govern decisions to live in delta
regions and how do they govern behavior within those regions?
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