Fluvial Landscapes of Costa Rica: An Overview of Dynamic Rivers

Abstract

Paper summary generated by OpenAI: This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the fluvial landscapes of Costa Rica, highlighting the dynamic nature of its river systems shaped by diverse geological and environmental factors. Utilizing advanced remote sensing techniques, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), along with hydraulic modeling and field observations, the authors characterize various river morphologies across distinct geological contexts. The findings reveal how rivers adapt to different landscapes, including steep volcanic terrains and urban settings, and emphasize the critical relationship between channel morphology, surface processes, and associated hazards. This work contributes to understanding the complex interactions within Costa Rica’s river systems, which are vital for managing the environmental risks linked to fluvial environments.