geomorphometry.org

The main aim of this study is to detect morpho-tectonic elements by using geomorphometry tools and GIS analysis to investigate and describe recent changes of the Earth surface relief. In particular, we search geomorphic evidences of active tectonics throughout active tectonics and classic morphometric indices.

The upper Scrivia river basin is located along the Adriatic side of the Northern Apennines and shows peculiar landforms often controlled by both tectonics and lithology. Geologically this is a really interesting area, just to the East of the Sestri-Voltaggio Line, the boundary between the Ligurian Alps and the Northern Apennines.

After a general characterization and a zoning of the study area with respect to channels order, we used GIS software to calculate the Asymmetry Factor and its distribution and to analyze the second order channels gradient, both connected to active tectonics.

We recognized a general prevalence of regional tectonics on local tectonics. The gradient map of second order channels suggests recent uplift  in the  SE  sector.  The high second order channels gradient values near to the mouth of the studied sector may be connected, on the contrary, to the base level changes related to the Quaternary network evolution of the Po plain.

Preliminary results underline the importance of morphometry to detect large-scale information about landscape evolution and its applicability in different contests. The low order channels gradient may also give useful information about natural hazard assessment.