Pictures of the beautiful streams or rivers found throughout West Virginia often bring to mind thoughts of the many recreational opportunities which we are so fortunate to enjoy. When a stream's habitat, water supply or water quality are impacted, the stream's value as a natural and recreational resource is put at risk. Personal property and utilities adjacent to a degraded or eroding stream can also become threatened.
Traditional Methods
Traditional methods of streambank stabilization such as rip rap, gabions and crib walls (also known as hard armor) are often effective. Although visually unappealing these practices may be a viable option due to site constraints, but frequently they do not address all aspects of the problem. These methods often lead to increased maintenance issues, a loss of aquatic habitat and a overall loss of natural function.
A Better Solution
Another option known as Natural Stream Restoration or Natural Channel Design might be the answer. Natural Channel
Design incorporates all aspects of stream function into the design. Bank stability, sediment transport, flood
frequency and habitat are each carefully considered when developing a design. By evaluating the dimension, pattern
and profile data of a stable natural stream and incorporating that information into a design for an impaired stream,
a "naturally" stable stream can be constructed. This stream would have an appropriate width and depth to transport
sediment without eroding the stream banks and bed or allowing deposition within the channel as often occurs in "constructed"
rip rap channels. The idea is that the stream will be relatively free to adjust and self maintain once construction is
completed. Additionally, structures used in natural channel design not only improve bank stability but also improve aquatic
habitat.
One of the more significant benefits of Natural Channel Design as compared to traditional hard armor is a reduced
cost of construction. In some situations, an implemented Natural Channel Design project could cost less than half that of
traditional projects. But most importantly it can return the stream to a natural self maintaining existence, requiring less
maintenance.
