Suspended sediment in rapid subsurface stormflow on a large field plot

The occurrence of rapid movement of suspended sediment in subsurface stormflow on a large field plot in California is described. Concentrations of over 1000mgl−1 were recorded in storms of only low to moderate intensity. The observed sediment was composed of uniformly fine‐sized particles 4 to 8 μm in diameter. The mode of transport seems different from processes previously reported. Differences in sediment concentrations in different events, levels of 137Cs on the sediment, and several other types of evidence indicate that the sediment was detached and entrained at the ground surface by raindrop impact and that the water and sediment flow occurred mainly through macropores in the soil. As conditions similar to those at the study site are not uncommon, it seems probable that the phenomenon may occur in many regions.