Establishing Dynamic Equilibrium in an Urban Stream
Author(s)
Lucas, W. Drew
Ferguson, Bruce K.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
Channelization of urban streams has reduced
infiltration and riparian habitat, increased flooding and
isolated urban residents from natural processes. One possible
way to restore environmental integrity of channeled streams
is to re-establish dynamic equilibrium, where outflows of
sediment and water are equal to those entering upstream.
This paper describes a design methodology to guide reestablishment
of dynamic equilibrium in channelized urban
streams.
In a hypothetical landscape design, dynamic equilibrium is
reestablished for a prominent Atlanta channeled urban
stream. Three main aspects of dynamic equilibrium were
considered in the design: 1) fluvial geomorphology, 2)
riparian habitat and 3) human use of the stream.
This paper affirms that the principle of dynamic
equilibrium can be used as a guide for establishing urban
channel forms and associated riparian habitat zones. Human
use and site specific exigencies can be integrated into the
stream with restored form and function through landscape
design.
Sponsor
Sponsored and Organized by: U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology
Date
1995-04
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings