Integrating geomorphology, hydraulics, and ecological criteria to support stream naturalization in East-Central Illinois

John S. Schwartz, Edwin E. Herricks, Bruce L. Rhoads

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Lack of integration of geomorphologic, hydraulic, and ecological criteria has hampered efforts to implement holistic approaches to stream restoration. We propose a design framework called stream naturalization that integrates geomorphology, hydraulics and ecology to improve the environmental quality of degraded streams. Research to support naturalization has focused on agricultural streams in East Central Illinois. This paper compares physical and biological conditions in meandering and straight reaches of a 3rd order stream. The meandering reach exhibits greater three-dimensional habitat structure compared to the straight reach. Fish density, biomass, and diversity also are greater in the meandering reach compared to the straight reach. Together these findings suggest that stream geomorphology, through its influence on habitat diversity, has an important influence on fish community structure. Naturalization designs that incorporate varied, but stable, geomorphological conditions, should, by enhancing habitat diversity, increase fish biomass and species richness. Copyright ASCE 2004.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationBridging the Gap
Subtitle of host publicationMeeting the World's Water and Environmental Resources Challenges - Proceedings of the World Water and Environmental Resources Congress 2001
DOIs
StatePublished - 2004
EventWorld Water and Environmental Resources Congress 2001 - Orlando, FL, United States
Duration: May 20 2001May 24 2001

Publication series

NameBridging the Gap: Meeting the World's Water and Environmental Resources Challenges - Proceedings of the World Water and Environmental Resources Congress 2001
Volume111

Other

OtherWorld Water and Environmental Resources Congress 2001
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando, FL
Period5/20/015/24/01

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Water Science and Technology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Integrating geomorphology, hydraulics, and ecological criteria to support stream naturalization in East-Central Illinois'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this