Embankment level

An embankment level is a level in which loose material of the same nature is deposited, especially in the area of floodplains . If the loose material is gravel , it is also referred to as gravel .

Embankment levels arise when loose material washed away by erosion is deposited again by the flowing water (especially in the course of rivers ). This is preferably done where the course of the river changes direction (example: meander ) or the gradient of a river in the lower reaches becomes so small that the force of the flowing water is no longer sufficient to transport the sediment material .

Embankment plains are not only found in floodplains, but also arise where loose material is deposited under glacial ice or on the edge of glaciers, for example in sand or in the gravel fields of the Alpine foothills.