Project Number: 6408-13000-012-10
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: Sep 01, 2001
End Date: Aug 31, 2004

Objective:
Using a scaled-down test channel with fixed walls, systematically vegetate a degraded stream channel using simulated, emergent vegetation and demonstrate the trapping of sediment within the vegetation zones and the growth and development of point bars. Using a scaled-down test channel with an erodible bed and banks, systematically vegetate a degraded stream channel using simulated, emergent vegetation and demonstrate the onset and development of a meandering stream pattern.

Approach:
Experiments will be conducted using a tilting recirculating flume 16.5 m long and 0.6 m wide. For objective 1, a degraded stream corridor with fixed walls and floor will be systematically vegetated using simulated nonflexible emergent vegetation. For objective 2, a physical scale model of a movable stream channel will be used. A distorted Froude-scale model of a typical incised stream within the loess region of the south-central U.S. will be constructed in 0.8-mm sand. Hydraulic conditions will be set to near threshold of motion for the sand. For objective 3, the experimental data collected in objectives 1 and 2 will be used to test and verify the analytical formulation of total drag in stream channels due to the presence of vegetation. The following data are required to perform this verification: vertical profiles of velocity and flow depth at two channel crosssections upstream and downstream of a predetermined vegetation zone and measurements of the channel bed slope between the two cross sections.

Project Team

Alonso, Carlos

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002

Related National Programs

Water Quality & Management (201)