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Ingeomorphology, astream head cut or simplyhead cut (alternatelyheadcut)[1] is anerosional feature of someintermittent andperennialstreams. Headcuts andheadward erosion are hallmarks of unstable expanding drainage features such as actively eroding gullies.[1] Headcuts are a type ofknickpoint that, as the name indicates, occur at the head (upstream extent) of a channel.[2]
The knickpoint, where a head cut begins, can be as small as an overly-steepriffle zone or as a large as awaterfall. When it is not flowing, the head cut will resemble a very shortcliff orbluff. A smallplunge pool may be present at the base of the head cut due to the high energy of falling water. As erosion of the knickpoint and the streambed continues, the head cut will migrate upstream.[3]
Groundwaterseeps andsprings are sometimes found along the face, sides, or base of a head cut.[4][5]
Channel incision is very common when head cuts are involved in stream morphology. In terms of stream restoration, head cuts are one of the most difficult challenges. Installingcheck dams or elevating the stream by filling the gully are common ways to mitigate up stream migration of the knickpoint. Another common way to control the knickpoint is by sloping the bank face by laying down fabric and rock.