|
New Model Streambed Allows Researchers to Study Stream Restoration As we reported in a previous article, hydrologists are beginning to reexamine traditional thinking about stream restoration. Although stream restoration projects are becoming more common, they are not always successful and more studies need to be done to enhance long-term success. According to a recent article in the New York Times (June 24, 2008), few stream restoration projects are followed up with monitoring studies, so very little is known about the long-term success of these projects. To remedy this information gap, the National Science Foundation is supporting construction of a large model streambed in Minneapolis, where researchers will be able to test restoration theory and practice. Construction is underway at the National Center for Earth Surface Dynamics, a research center based at the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, on an "outdoor streamlab." Scientists and engineers at the lab, which is affiliated with the University of Minnesota, use computers to model stream and river behavior, including sediment movement, channel and floodplain dynamics and dam removal. The streamlab, an outdoor to-scale experimental facility, relies on bypasses once used to send river water around falls. The facility will allow researchers to try building restoration projects to the scale of small, real channels and test the results. Researchers are lining up to use it. F. X. Browne, Inc. designs scientifically sound streambank and shoreline restoration projects that are based on empirical modeling and field-verified geomorphology techniques. For more information about restoration projects, or to learn about our many successful stream restoration projects, please visit the Stream Restoration Qualifications page on our Website, or contact info@fxbrowne.com. Bioengineered
streambank at Cooks
Creek restoration project showing live stakes and boulder toe.. |
|
