Stage-Dependent Cross Section Adjustments in a Meandering Reach of Fall River, Colorado
Abstract
Dam failure created a 1000-fold increase in bedload supply to Fall River, a sinuous, low gradient, snowmelt-fed stream. This mobile sediment allows channel topography to change with stage. In a reach with resistant banks, the relationships between flow and bed material were studied by measuring bedload, bed and water surface topography, and velocity patterns at different discharges. At bankfull flows, cross-sections showed maximum asymmetry: point-bars near the water surface and deep thalwegs. Bedload transport was concentrated on the point bar platforms. At low forms, cross-section symmetry was greatest dus to additional erosion of the high-flow point bars, and extensive thalweg filling. Bedload transport was more uniform across the channel.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA231183
Entities
People
- D. Anthony
- M. D. Harvey
Organizations
- Colorado State University