Green River: Bank Erosion EarthCache
Green River: Bank Erosion
-
Difficulty:
-
-
Terrain:
-
Size: 
(not chosen)
Related Web Page
Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions
in our disclaimer.
The Geen River at Mammoth Cave National Park
NOTE: These geological features of the Green River were observed and documented during a float trip which launched at Dennison's Ferry (parking coordinates below) and terminated at the Green River Ferry 7.5 river miles downstream. While these areas may be reached on foot, they would easily be rated a 4.5 terrain. A canoe or other floatable is highly recommended. This Earthcache listed with permission from Mammoth Cave National Park management and staff.
Please read and follow MCNP Boating/Camping Rules and Regulations HERE!
White Nose Syndrome (WNS) is killing the bats. Be aware of it BY READING THIS!
_________________________________________________________________
Cut bank erosion along the Green River. Note uprooted tree.
The posted coordinates will bring you to an example of riverbank erosion on the Green River.
A cut bank, also known as a river cliff, is an erosional feature of streams and rivers. Cut banks are found in abundance along mature or meandering streams, they are located on the outside of a stream bend, known as a meander. They are shaped much like a small cliff, and are formed by the erosion of soil as the stream collides with the river bank.
As opposed to a point bar which is an area of deposition, a cut bank is an area of erosion. Typically, cut banks are nearly vertical and often expose the roots of nearby plant life. Often, particularly during periods of high rainfall and higher-than average water levels, trees and poorly placed buildings can fall into the stream due to mass wasting events.
Given enough time, the combination of erosion along cut banks and deposition along point bars can lead to the formation of an oxbow lake. Not only are cut banks steep and unstable, they are also the area of a stream where the water is flowing the fastest and the deepest, making them rather dangerous. Geologically speaking, this is known as an area of high-energy. Material eroded here is deposited downstream in point bars.
A point bar is an area of deposition whereas a cut bank is an area of erosion. Point bars will be discussed elsewhere along the river.
________________________________________________________________
LEFT: Dennison Ferry Launch CENTER: ARF! at Cut Bank RIGHT:Green River Ferry terminus
________________________________________________________________
To log your visit: Post a photo and share your visit! Additionally, to demonstrate the educational value of this site, please email the answers to the following questions to ARF!.
1. What is the height of the erosional feature?
2. What caused the horizontal grooves in the riverbank?
3. Why is the area at the base of this bank considered a risk?
4. What number is on the Mile-Marker sign?
Please email your answers first, then LOG THE FIND. Do not wait on a reply from me. FINDs which do not meet logging requirements will be removed.
Earthcaching: Leave No Trace!
This Earthcache listed with permission of Mammoth Cave National Park.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Cubgb naq #4 ng gur fvgr, rqh-pnpuvbany nafjref ner va gur grkg.