Rootwad Composites for Streambank Erosion Control and Fish Habitat Enhancement
Abstract
A rootwad composite is a combination of interlocking tree materials where a mass of tree mots, commonly called a rootwad, is utilized with other tree parts and revegetation methods to stabilize streambanks and provide aquatic habitat. Rootwad composites are often a cost-effective bank stabilization and habitat enhancement treatment. Rootwad composites move the current line away from the streambank so that the bank is less susceptible to erosion through hydraulic forces. This, in effect, reduces the energy environment along the streambank/water interface so that riparian vegetation can provide the necessary bank protection and habitat values. Rootwad composites also generate turbulence that creates stream bed scour and provides cover and substrate for aquatic organisms. Other streambank stabilization measures generally offer less risk, but rootwad composites offer the following advantages: (1) are typically cost-effective because they utilize natural materials that are often found on or near the site; (2) eventually decompose, thus allowing the restored riparian zone to function naturally, (3) create habitat complexity, hydraulic diversity, and substrate sorting (Figure 3), and (4) induce less local sediment deposition than other flow deflection structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA378425
Entities
People
- Craig Fischenich
- Traci Sylte