"A New Machine-Learning Approach for Classifying Hysteresis in Suspende" by Scott D. Hamshaw, Mandar M. Dewoolkar et al.

College of Arts and Sciences Faculty Publications

Title

A New Machine-Learning Approach for Classifying Hysteresis in Suspended-Sediment Discharge Relationships Using High-Frequency Monitoring Data

Authors

Scott D. Hamshaw, University of Vermont
Mandar M. Dewoolkar, University of Vermont
Andrew W. Schroth, University of Vermont
Beverley C. Wemple, University of Vermont
Donna M. Rizzo, University of Vermont

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2018

Abstract

Studying the hysteretic relationships embedded in high-frequency suspended-sediment concentration and river discharge data over 600+ storm events provides insight into the drivers and sources of riverine sediment during storm events. However, the literature to date remains limited to a simple visual classification system (linear, clockwise, counter-clockwise, and figure-eight patterns) or the collapse of hysteresis patterns to an index. This study leverages 3 years of suspended-sediment and discharge data to show proof-of-concept for automating the classification and assessment of event sediment dynamics using machine learning. Across all catchment sites, 600+ storm events were captured and classified into 14 hysteresis patterns. Event classification was automated using a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a type of artificial neural network, trained on 2-D images of the suspended-sediment discharge (hysteresis) plots. Expansion of the hysteresis patterns to 14 classes allowed for new insight into drivers of the sediment-discharge event dynamics including spatial scale, antecedent conditions, hydrology, and rainfall. The probabilistic RBM correctly classified hysteresis patterns (to the exact class or next most similar class) 70% of the time. With increased availability of high-frequency sensor data, this approach can be used to inform watershed management efforts to identify sediment sources and reduce fine sediment export.

Rights Information

Recommended Citation

Hamshaw SD, Dewoolkar MM, Schroth AW, Wemple BC, Rizzo DM. A new machine‐learning approach for classifying hysteresis in suspended‐sediment discharge relationships using high‐frequency monitoring data. Water Resources Research. 2018 Jun;54(6):4040-58.