Fluvial forms and processes in natural and engineered river channels: geotourism potential of mountain valleys – examples from Zubrzyca, Syhlec and Lipnica streams in the Polish Orava (Danube Water Basin)

Abstract

Aim of the study: In the paper, geomorphological processes and forms investigated in mountain channel streams are presented, which may be attractive for tourists who are interested in Geotourism. The authors focused on the description of river erosion and accumulation in the context of potential geo-sites. Fluvial processes and forms were showed in three streams channels in Orava region. The streams are parallel to each other in their catchments. The analyzed streams are different in the sense of an anthropopression which had place in their catchments. It allowed showing the processes of fluvial geomorphological processes in stream valley with are natural or artificial changed with hydraulic structures. Material and methods: The paper was based on field research. The first step was to observe fluvial processes and forms in the Zubrzyca, Syhlec and Lipnica streams. Then the analysed watercourse bearings and river forms and processes observed within them were mated. Results and conclusions: Fluvial processes and the resulting forms of terrain may interest tourists who want to get to know a given region. However, the use of such geomorphological geosites requires appropriate tourist development. Initially, it may be limited to placing information boards next to the objects, marking the path to the geo-stand or marking a tourist trail. Such projects can also be undertaken in the Polish Orava in the vicinity of the streams Zubrzyca, Syhlec and Lipnica.

Keywords

• accumulation
• erosion
• fluvial geomorphology
• orava
• geofluviotourism