Application of Regional Sediment Approach to Hickahala Creek Watershed, Northern Mississippi
Abstract
Biedenharn (2004) described the systematic approach to Regional Sediment Management (RSM) that has been developed as part of the Demonstration Erosion Control (DEC) project. The purpose of this Coastal and Hydraulics Engineering Technical Note (CHETN) is to describe how this RSM approach was successfully applied to the Hickahala Creek watershed in northern Mississippi. Channel modification or channelization activities are listed among the top 10 sources for nonpoint pollution impacts to rivers (USEPA 1993). Activities such as straightening, widening, deepening, and clearing channels of debris generally fall into this category. These activities can severely impact major river projects such as navigation and flood control, as well as alter or reduce the diversity of in-stream and riparian habitats. Without a proper understanding of the fluvial system, even projects intended to rehabilitate streams can cause severe instability. River systems maintain stability by providing just the necessary flow to transport the available water and sediment. When this balance of water and sediment transport discharge is upset, the system will adjust by increasing or decreasing erosion from the channel bed or river banks. This is a complex interaction that involves the entire watershed and river system. Therefore, a systemwide approach must be taken to analyze these impacts and develop remedial measures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA602255
Entities
People
- Chester C. Watson
- David S. Biedenharn
- John B. Smith
- Lisa C. Hubbard
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center