Using the ASTER GDEM v.2 global digital elevation model to identify areas of possible activation of karst processes in the Arkhangelsk region (Russia)

Abstract

The possibility of applying the method of detecting drainless depressions, which is used in hydrological correction of the digital elevation model, to identify areas of probable activation of the karst processes in the territory of the Arkhangelsk region was considered. This approach is especially relevant for northern forested territories subjected to continuously increasing anthropogenic activity. Errors (depressions) eliminated by the hydrological correction procedure are not always false. They can be natural landforms, especially in karst areas. Hydrological correction of the digital elevation model of the Arkhangelsk region (based on ASTER GDEM v.2) was performed. A vector layer of depressions in the region was obtained. The density of drainless depressions per unit area was calculated. The resulting map showing the density of drainless depressions was compared with the distribution of karst rocks in the Arkhangelsk region. It was found that the areas of maximum open karst development are associated with a low density of drainless depressions. The highest density of drainless depressions occurs in the territory with carbonate-covered and buried karst.

Keywords

• digital elevation model
• hydrological correction
• drainless depression
• karst rocks