This project analyzes changes in the channel and disturbance zones of Finley Creek in southwest Missouri between 1955 and 2005 using historical aerial photos and GIS. Disturbance zones were classified into four types: extension, translation, chute cutoff, and megabar. Spatial analyses found tributary drainage area and valley characteristics strongly influence disturbance zone development, while riparian land cover has a negligible effect. Continued research will focus on factors controlling specific disturbance zone types.