RIPARIAN RESTORATION
STREAM BANK PROTECTION
Flowing water can scour and erode stream
banks and watercourses causing disturbances to fish
habitat and drinking water quality. Water Bioengineering
involves the use of vegetation for the engineering and
ecological enhancement of riverbanks and shores (Schiechtl
and Stern, 1994).
Stabilization includes many techniques that can be
employed to control stream bank erosion. Selection of
the most appropriate approach requires careful consideration
of project objectives, habitat issues, site conditions,
and budgetary constraints.
Bank stabilization techniques may be classified as
one of three structural types (Watershed Restoration
Technical Circular No.9):
1. Rock methods employ large boulder or rip rap to
armor the bank or redirect flows. Types include: rock
toe keys, groynes, rock revetments, turning rocks and
tie backs.
2. Vegetative methods utilize plants or plant cuttings
for bank stabilization. Types include: herbaceous ground
cover, rooted stock, live cuttings, fascines, brush
mattresses and brush layers.
3. Integrated methods incorporate a variety of materials
such as rock, timber, soil or plants and may also include
fabrics such as jute or coil mesh. Types include: joint
planting, vegetated geogrids, vegetated riprap, live
cribwalls, tree revetments and large woody debris.
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