Form Follows Function – Modeling for Functional Integrity of Aquatic Ecosystems
Brian O’Neill
Burns & McDonnell Engineering Company, Inc.
Chicago, IL
Hydrodynamic and mass balance models can strengthen the practice of river restoration by enhancing the functional aspect of design. The built and natural environment are inextricably linked, directly and indirectly, affecting the stability and ecological condition of our rivers. Some common drivers for restoration include commercial and residential development, industrial use of rivers for cooling, and even response to the effects of climate change on river temperature and flow patterns. The approaches, perspectives, and project-specific goals of river restoration can be just as diverse, for example, compensatory mitigation, alternatives to costly capital improvements at industrial and municipal facilities, and protection of infrastructure from unstable channels. Regardless of the drivers or the approach, I would argue that improving the functional integrity of the aquatic ecosystem should be a requisite goal for all river restoration projects.
Using the design principle of ‘form follows function’ requires an understanding of the river ecosystem and the physical habitats and processes that support its native fauna. Hydrodynamic and mass balance models such as River 2D and EFDC can inform this aspect of the design process with predictions of depth, velocity, sediment transport potential, and water quality characteristics such as temperature and salinity. Once considered too data-intensive to implement routinely, the increased affordability and access to advanced data collection technologies (e.g., LiDAR) have enabled practitioners the capability to rapidly collect high-resolution, robust datasets. In-situ measurements were collected at project sites, including physical (e.g., channel dimensions and profiles) and chemical (e.g., temperature), to support river assessment and modeling. Fish and mussel life history traits, habitat preferences, and thermal tolerances serve as indicators of ecological and functional integrity for each site. Examples demonstrating the utility of 2D modeling will be presented, including data collection, modeling approach, and deliverables. Descriptions will be provided of the modeling scenarios and design iterations that are being used to optimize functional integrity.
About Brian O’Neill
Brian is an Aquatic Ecologist with 22 years of experience working with clients to plan and execute environmental assessment, restoration, and permitting projects throughout the country. A Saluki alum, with an M.S. in Zoology - Fisheries from SIU-Carbondale. He brings an environmental planning perspective to delivering sustainable solutions for projects bridging the built and natural environments. Brian builds and leads technical teams and is adept at applying innovative technologies to achieve project goals. He enjoys traveling with his wife and two kids and wrenches on his 1973 air-cooled Volkswagen when spare time exists.