Design of Resilient and Sustainable Stream Restoration Projects using 2D Models
Art Parola, PhD, PE
Wetland Studies and Solutions, Inc.
Louisville, KY
Authors: Parola, Art, Robinson Jesse, Wiliam Vesely, Michael Croasdaile
Long-term sustainability of stream restoration projects depends on many factors, but none is more important than the ability of the channel bed, banks, and floodplain to resist damage from large flood events. The design of a stable and resilient restoration project requires that the channel and floodplain be designed as a system with robust vertical and lateral controls capable of resisting large flood forces. Identifying components of stream restoration projects that may be vulnerable to flood damage requires reasonably accurate prediction of channel and floodplain stresses and/or velocities.
The presenters have used 2D models as part of their restoration design processes for over 20 years. This process includes modeling floodplain and channel velocities and stresses during large flood events to identify vulnerable restoration components. Once identified, the design is modified to alleviate areas of high stress or adequate protection is designed. 2D models have been found to be exceptionally useful in identifying flood vulnerabilities in floodplain contractions, channel and floodplain bends, sections of overly sinuous channels, upstream and downstream transitions from unrestored to restored reaches, upstream and downstream of roadway crossings, transitions from wide floodplain to narrow crossings, and utility crossings.
As with all models, there are conditions where 2D models do not fully represent velocities and stresses. Designers need to be aware of these conditions and adjust their interpretation of model results accordingly.
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