| Shades Creek Watershed Project |
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The Channel & Watershed Processes Research Unit, National Sedimentation Laboratory conducted a study of suspended-sediment yields and bed-material characteristics in Shades Creek, Alabama. The overall objectives of the study were to determine suspended-sediment yields and sources in the Shades Creek watershed and to compare these to "reference" sediment yields for un-impacted (stable) streams in Ecoregion 67 (Ridge and Valley). In addition, a methodology was developed for determining "reference" bed-material characteristics supportive of aquatic health. Specific objectives included:
- Determine an applicable suspended-sediment "reference" condition and sediment yield for the Ridge and Valley Ecoregion and apply it to conditions along Shades Creek using geomorphic techniques and historical data from the U.S. Geological Survey gaging station on Shades Creek near Greenwood, Alabama;
- Develop a methodology to determine "reference" bed-material characteristics for the Ridge and Valley Ecoregion and apply it to conditions along Shades Creek;
- Determine sediment loadings emanating from Shades Creek and the contributions from various channel and upland sources in the watershed, and simulate the effects of gross upland and streambank best management practices using AnnAGNPS and the channel-evolution model CONCEPTS;
- Use historical flow and suspended-sediment transport data to validate the numerical simulations.
Results of this study indicate that a significant proportion of the sediment in the Shades Creek watershed emanates from the stream channels. Subsequent decisions regarding reducing sediment loadings will need to pay particular attention to stream-channel processes and stabilizing eroding reaches of Shades Creek.
The report describing the project can be obtained at the following link:
Point of Contact:
Dr. Ronald L. Bingner, Research Leader
Dr. Eddy Langendoen, Research Hydraulic Engineer
