W. Brian Dade Surficial Processes

Contact Information:

Earth Surface Processes:

I enjoy learning about Earth surface processes and forms, especially the dynamics and deposits of rivers and the sea, and of gravity-driven flows associated with avalanches and volcanic eruptions. The aim of my research is an improved understanding of i) particle and contaminant transport, ii) the sedimentary record, iii) geologic hazards, and iv) the morphology and evolution of natural landscapes.

My research is characterized by an interdisciplinary view of the natural world and the broad application of physical concepts. Some students I work with pursue field studies to examine quantitative aspects of Earth surface morphology and the sedimentary record. Others pursue environmentally-relevant and theory-driven experiments in 'The Water Shed', a laboratory which houses a re-circulating flume, a lock-release tank, and related, state-of-the art instrumentation for the study of sediment-transporting flows and flows through porous media. Click here for a view of the ‘Shed’. Please contact me about mutual interests and opportunities for graduate research.

Research Group Website: Geomorphology and Surficial Processes at Dartmouth

Selected Recent Publications:

Haehnel, R.B. & W.B Dade. 2008. Physics of particle entrainment under the influence of an impinging jet . Proc. Army Science Conference, Dec 1-4, 2008, Orlando , FL. (cited as ‘best conference paper'!)

Haehnel, R.B., W.B. Dade, & B. Cushman-Roisin. 2008. Crater evolution due to a jet impinging on a bed of loose particles. Proc. 11 th ASCE Earth & Space Conference, March 3-6, 2008, Long Beach , CA .

Hamm, N., W. B. Dade, & C. E. Renshaw. 2008. Fine particle deposition to initially-starved beds. Sedimentology.

Hong, E., W. B. Dade, Y-C. Chang, & S-Y. Chan. 2008. Geomorphic evolution of a barrier island reflects the history of natural sediment supply and human intervention in Taiwan . J. Coastal Research.