Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Earth Sciences

Committee Chair

Rachel Lombardi

Committee Member

Andrew Mickelson

Committee Member

Gary Stinchcomb

Abstract

Human activities have shaped river basins for centuries, significantly impacting river flood dynamics and the watershed's environmental health. This study examined how pre-European settlement land-use changes influenced flood frequency and magnitude on the Ocoee River, spanning the Paleo-Indian period (ca. 10,000 BCE) to the Late Mississippian/Protohistoric period (ca. 1650 CE). By analyzing archaeological evidence and sediment-based flood frequency and magnitude proxies, this study evaluated the effects of evolving land-use practices, from small-scale hunter-gathering to large-scale agriculture, on flood dynamics. While post-European land-use impacts are well-documented, the linear rise in pre-European environmental disruption often goes underrecognized despite its significant role in shaping flood patterns. Results revealed heightened flood frequency during major climatic transitions and intensive land uses, particularly in the Late Woodland and Mississippian periods. Climatic and geomorphic factors also played a critical role in driving flood frequency and magnitude. Further research on the anthropogenic and natural effects on flooding is needed to anticipate future flood risks in frequency and magnitude more accurately.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Embargoed until 11-05-2025

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