RIPARIAN RESTORATION
AND STREAMSIDE EROSION
CONTROL HANDBOOK
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Pursuant to the State of Tennessee's policy of non-discrimination, the Tennessee
Department of Environment and Conservation does not discriminate on the basis of race,
sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or military service in its
policies, or in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs,
services or activities.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA inquiries or complaints should
be directed to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation,
EEO/AA/ADA Coordinator, 401 Church Street, 21st floor, Nashville, TN 37243,
(615)532-0103.
Hearing impaired callers may use the Tennessee Relay Service (1-800-848-0298).
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation,
Authorization No. 327480, 1,500 copies. This public document
was promulgated at a cost of $2.54 per copy. November 1994.
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9ov/i-1n/ooi-
RIPARIAN RESTORATION
AND STREAMSIDE EROSION CONTROL
Compiled and written by:
Jennifer N. Thompson,
Don L. Green,
Nonpoint Source Program,
Division of Water Pollution Control
in cooperation with the
Natural Resources Section,
Division of Water Pollution Control
With illustrations by
LeAnne Johnson,
Tennessee State Parks
Department of Environment and Conservation
HANDBOOK
November, 1994
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION:
II. RIPARIAN ZONE MANAGEMENT
in. AQUATIC PERMITS AND REGULATIONS
IV. STREAM DYNAMICS & CAUSES OF EROSION
V. REMOVING OBSTRUCTIONS
VI. STREAM STABILIZATION METHODS
A. CONVENTIONAL BANK ARMORING
1. Riprap
2. Gabions
3. Cribs
B. STABILIZATION STRUCTURES
1. Fences
2. Spur dikes
3. Pile dikes
4. Hard points
5. Jacks & posts
6. Tree & brush revetments
C. IN-STREAM STRUCTURES
1. Dams
a. Rock
b. Log
2. Deflectors
a. Double
b. Single
D. CONVENTIONAL VEGETATION
1. Sprigging
2. Sodding
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3. Reed Rolls
4. Willow Twigs
5. Seeding of Grasses
6. Hydroseeding
E. SOIL BIOENGINEERING
1. Wattling Bundles
2. Brush Layering
3. Brush Matting
4. Revetment or Crib Structures
5. Willow Posts
6. Live Stakes
7. Live Fascine
8. Brush Mattress
9. Branch Packing
10. Live Cribwalls
11. Vegetated Geogrids
12. Joint Planting
13. Plant Rolls
14. Schwimmkampen Islands
15. Fiber Rolls
F. HABITAT RESTORATION
1. Boulder Clusters
2. Brush Bundle
3. Bank Cover
4. Channel Constrictors
5. Rock, Gabion, or Log Frame Deflectors
6. V-Notch Gabion or Log Wedge
7. K-Dams
8. Log Drop Structures (check dams)
9. Bank Cnb with Cover Log
10. Log and Bank Shelter
11. Lunker Units
vn. CONCLUSION
VIIL LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES
EX. APPENDIX
A. Contact List
B. Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit Examples.
REFERENCES
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Department is grateful for the overwhelming response given by the many
State and Federal agencies to this project. This document is an outgrowth of a
commitment made when annual milestones were developed for the State
Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Management Program, in May of 1990.
Much of the information contained in the document is borrowed from our
colleagues and we are most appreciative of their permission to use this
information. Many of the contributions to die document are a result of
information developed during the Riparian Habitat Protection and
Reconstruction Symposium held at Paris Landing State Park, November 7-11,
1993.
Austin Peay State University's Center for Excellence in Field Biology program,
Mack Finley, and Steve Hamilton contributed to the Symposium as well as
made contributions to the document, we appreciate these efforts. Additionally,
we want to thank Hollis Allen, WES-USCOE; Jim Gore, Troy State University.;
Scott Knight, National Sedimentation. Lab., USD A; Don Roseboom, Illinois
State Water Survey; and Richard Wehnes, Missouri Department of
Conservation for their contributions to the Symposium and the document.
We hope that this document will be used as a source of information for
conservation efforts to continue stream restoration, habitat reclamation, and
erosion control. The staff devoted many long hours in order to complete the
review of the many articles, pamphlets, documents and scientific literature used
to support the text. We are grateful for all of die contributions from other state
and federal agencies as well as organizations. With their help, we were able to
include some of die most complete and informative material on streambank
stabilization and reconstruction in die country. We respect the dedication and
effort of everyone involved in this project and their commitment to continuing
to protect and restore watersheds.
This document is supported in part by grants from die U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Program and the Tennessee
Department of Environment and Conservation. Further use of this text must
only be done with permission of the Department's Nonpoint Source Program.
Andrew N. Barrass, Ph.D., Manager
Nonpoint Source Program
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I. INTRODUCTION
Freshwater streams and rivers have been used by man over the years to provide
nourishment, energy and transportation. We have perceived these resources to
be resilient and almost indestructible. But many years of overuse and misuse
have resulted in severe damage to the streams and rivers and the ecosystems
associated with the running water systems. These ecosystems provide primary
habitats for a variety of uniquely adapted plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates.
With the worldwide decline in biodiversity, restoration and maintenance of
unique stream ecosystems are imperative (Cairns 1988).
Every year, thousands of tons of soil are lost due to stream bank erosion.
Farming practices, which denude the bank of vegetation, channelization, gravel
dredging and other activities in the streams add to the damage. Lost soil
contributes to loss of income, habitat and land. In serious cases, bridges and
highways have been destroyed due to improper construction and the instability
of stream banks during floods. But there is much that can be done to repair
damaged streambank or riparian zones. By using proper streambank
management practices, carefully placing instream structures, and replanting and
rearmoring streambanks, we can begin to repair the damage caused by man's
activities and the forces of nature.
Restoration activities not only maintain a valuable ecological resource but also
provide the potential for a manageable, relatively renewable, resource of fresh
water. Stream repair is much more complicated than terrestrial repair. Running
water ecosystem restoration must also account for systems that interact to
produce the lotic environment, i.e., surface pollutant runoff, riparian vegetation
restoration and instream channel hydrologic considerations (Caims 1988).
Whether the cause of streambank damage is natural or manmade, it can be
improved by one or a combination of methods. The first step is to understand
stream dynamics and to determine what has caused the problem. Correcting the
problem may be as simple as removing an obstruction mat is impeding
streamflow or it may involve soil bioengineering techniques to rebuild damaged
habitats quickly. All the techniques described in this handbook can be
implemented successfully with a little planning. The {nice of implementing
reconstructive measures will depend upon the method(s) used or what types of
plants are selected. The rewards of repairing damaged streambanks and riparian
zones are extensive and include: streambank stabilization, creation of fish and
wildlife habitat, beautification of home mid land, and increased economic
security.
It is important to understand that a streambank may erode for many different
reasons and die cause is not always obvious. It might be as simple as lack of
bank vegetation to hold the soil in place or as complex as changes in runoff
caused by urban runoff, poor logging or fanning practices or other activities in
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the watershed. Landowners should determine why excess gravel is
accumulating in the stream. The gravel bars in the stream are usually not the
cause of stream bank erosion; they are one result of poor management practices
of the riparian zone, watershed and/or stream channel. Addressing only the site
of the gravel bar or bank cutting could be an expense of time and money that
will have to be repeated if the immediate cause is not addressed.
This handbook was prepared in response to a need by landowners to prevent
erosion of private lands and to rehabilitate damaged stream side or riparian
zones. This publication is not intended to showcase new technology, but to
present successful techniques for planting, bank armoring, in-stream structures
and soil bioengineering which have been used by others to stabilize
streambanks and restore freshwater ecosystems. These techniques are only
recommendations or suggestions that the landowner may choose to implement.
The examples shown in this book are representative of these techniques, though
there are many others.
Landowners should always check with the Tennessee Department of
Environment and Conservation, Division of Water Pollution Control. Natural
Resources Section before undertaking any stream alteration activities, to
determine if a permit is needed for that activity. (See Aquatic Permits and
Regulations, section III.)
There are some general measures that can be taken to prevent Streambank
Erosion. The Georgia Soil and Water Commission provides the following tips
below in their April 1993 draft document, Controlling Streambank Erosion:
Preventing streambank erosion problems is less expensive than
repairing Hamagp resulting from erosion. It is important to take
steps to prevent streambank erosion problems from occurring.
Preservation and protection of the native streamside vegetation
community is an important key to streambank protection.
Since woody vegetation is the best streambank stabilizer, every
effort should be made to maintain existing trees and shrubs.
These plants trap sediment from adjacent land and hold the soil in
place with their root structures, forming a root mat that reinforces
the soil mantle on the streambank. Plants also enhance the
appearance of the stream and serve as wildlife habitat Trees
provide additional benefits by shading the stream to maintain the
lower summertime water temperatures which are necessary for a
healthy aquatic population.
Here are some practical measures that can protect streambanks
from erosion:
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Maintain an Undisturbed Buffer Zone at Least 25 Feet Wide
on Both Sides of the Stream. This area needs the protection of a
permanent vegetative root cover and mat to protect and stabilize
the soil. Where adjacent slopes are steep, a wider corridor of
woody plants and shrubs is appropriate.
Restrict the Operations of Heavy Machinery, Construction,
Animal Grazing, and Other Intensive Activities within the
Buffer Zone. Tnese activities compact the soil, which decreases
infiltration, percolation, and aeration, increases runoff, and thus
cause* die eventual destruction of plants, soil and habitat.
Use Best Management Practices for Agricultural and Forestry
Activities. In agricultural areas, field tillage should follow die
contouring method. Maintain an undisturbed riparian corridor
next to the stream. Eliminate livestock access to streambanks.
Stock watering areas can be used to limit access and should be
stabilized by stone or railroad ties which can withstand trampling.
Plant Vegetation. Where existing vegetation is sparse, planting
of the site-specific native plants can be less expensive, offer
higher survival rates and give more protection than ornamental or
non-native plants. Native self-maintaining perennial species can
be selected and planted using the guidelines in this booklet.
Don't Straighten Channels. People often think that straightening
the channel is the quickest and easiest solution to their erosion
problem. However, this procedure is almost never effective in
controlling erosion. Past experience has shown that channel
straightening will simply change the location and nature of the
erosion problem and usually nuke the problem worse.
It is important to consider the types of equipment you will be using for your
project, safety, design, cost and cleanup. Tne following pointers are offered by
the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission in their April 1993 draft
document, Controlling Streambank Erosion:.
1. Identify the Cause and Nature of the Problem - Identify
upstream activities which may affect streamflow, observe
upstream bank conditions, consult with up and downstream
neighbors, contact your Soil conservation Service office, identify
the type and severity of your bank erosion problems (see section
on Streambank Erosion) and upstream causes.
2. Evaluate Alternatives and Sglect Appropriate Streambank
Erosion Protection Measured
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3. Determine When You Will Do the Project - Some practices
must be installed during the dormant season or grass growing
season.
4. Locate Underground Services Which Could Be Affected bv
. Construction Activities - Sewer lines, underground utilities, wells,
septic tanks and drainfields, etc.
5. Plan or Design Erosion Protection Measures - Using the
descriptions of the streambank protection measures (in the
following section) that you have selected, design necessaiy
structures, and lay out practices on a sketch of your stream and
streambanks. The sketch should be sufficiently accurate to allow
you to estimate the amount of materials which, will be needed for
the project. Be sure to include erosion control measures such as
silt fence and hay bales.
6. List and Acquire Materials and Necessary Tools - Estimate and
develop a list of the number or amount of materials and tools
(purchase or rental) necessary to complete die project. Determine
the source of tools and materials. In some cases you may have to
locate and secure permission to harvest suitable sources of plant
materials or find a plant nursery which handles appropriate
species.
7. Access and Clean Up Cost - Be sure to consider access to the
stream for machinery and vehicles on to your property and
possibly your neighbor's. Typically, due to landscaping and site
services, etc., urban sites have major access considerations. The
costs for repairing construction damage need to be calculated.
8. Develop a Safety Plan - You may be working with power tools
in wooded areas and adjacent to flowing and, sometimes, deep
water. Have appropriate safety devices such as goggles, leather
work gloves and chaps for chainsaw use. Consider insect and
snake hazards, and avoid deep or storm water flows.
But before you install your project, consider the following tips:
1. Contact the local unit of government where you live for
required permits (i.e. public works, engineering or planning and
zoning offices). They can direct you to state and federal agencies
if additional authorization is required.
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2. Speak to your upstream and downstream neighbors to
determine if they too have problems, and if they would participate
in a repair project.
3. Take steps to ensure that soil does not get pushed or washed
into the stream during this project. Install and maintain sediment
control devices where needed.
4. Start your work at the upstream end and work your way
downstream.
5. Do not implement measures that restrict the size of the
channel. Practices that restrict channel flow can cause flooding or
increase erosion. [Editor's note: instream structures such as
wings or channel constrictors do direct the flow to the center of
the stream, causing the channel to deepen in the middle and
create scour pools for habitat for fish. (This is shown in
Section Vl-F, Habitat Restoration.) In some cases, such
practices are the preferred choice. This is one reason it is
always best to consult a professional.}
6. Do not use materials which may be poisonous to fish and
aquatic life such as asphalt for riprap or wood treated with
creosote.
7. Keep the stream channel and die banks as natural as possible
to maintain habitats for fish, aquatic organisms, birds and animals.
8. Begin and end all streambank protection projects at stable
points along the bank. This may be a point at which the main
thrust of the flow is parallel to the bank, or at a stable structure
such as a bridge or culvert This may require cooperative efforts
by several landowners.
9. Divert intensive sources of runoff such as gutter downspouts or
street drainage away from die area to be treated, and be sure to
include appropriate drainage facilities for this flow.
10. Make sure you have protected the submerged part of the bank,
all the way to the channel bottom, and in some cases where
undercutting has occurred, below die bottom. Otherwise the
current may undermine die erosion control measures installed.
11. Be prepared to maintain your project. Inspect the project
regularly, particularly after heavy rains and high flows, and make
necessary repairs as soon as possible.
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12. Re-establish streambank vegetation and trees using native
plants.
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II. RIPARIAN ZONE MANAGEMENT
One of 1fae first steps to controlling erosion and repairing damaged habitats is to
understand what a watershed is and how it works. Bill Turner, with Missouri
Department of Conservation defines a watershed in the publication,
Understanding Streams:
The watershed is an area of land that drains into a stream.
This includes both the surface runoff and groundwater.
Because a stream is made up of drainage water it is a
product of the land above it
If the land is misused or pollutants are spilled, the
receiving stream will be degraded. Although simple, the
most important concept in stream management is that every
stream is the product of its watershed and each of us lives
in a watershed. Each one of us is linked to a stream
regardless of our occupation or way of life. How we use
the land is ultimately reflected in the condition of die
stream.
Watershed management includes all of the land uses and
activities of rural and urban living. Each watershed has its
own runoff patterns which are dependent upon the types of
plants and trees and the natural slope of the land.
A timbered or native grass watershed delivers its runoff
slowly and over a long time period. Watersheds with a lot
of timber clearing or the construction of many paved
streets and parking lots allow water to run off fast, which
results in larger, more frequent floods. Faster runoff
increases erosion both on the land and in the stream
channels below.
Simple removal of nonpoint pollutants is not enough to
improve the quality of water resources. A balanced,
integrated, adaptive community of riparian and aquatic
organisms comparable to the natural systems of the region
with stability and capacity for self repair must be
reestablished. Hie restoration of a healthy aquatic
ecosystem from the headwaters to the estuaries to the
oceans requires the re-establishment of significant amounts
of riparian forest
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Control of point source pollutants was a start; control of
nonpoint pollutants and repair of the aquatic ecosystem
through re-establishment of the streamside forest is a
logical next step in improving the quality of our water
resources.
It is important to try to maintain a healthy riparian or streamside buffer zone
between the land and streams. Riparian zones are areas of trees, shrubs, grasses
and plants which grow along the banks of streams, lakes and rivers. The plant
root systems are critical in controlling streamside erosion. They do this by
slowing down the water and allowing sediment, gravel and sand to drop out
before the storm runoff reaches the stream. Root systems also hold the soil
complex of the bank in place. The vegetation in riparian zones will aid in
stopping pollutants from overland runoff which can become toxic to plants and
animals. The tree canopy and leaf layer also serve to protect the soil from the
direct force of rain drops. A wide vegetated corridor will ensure stability of the
stream even when flood waters destroy some of the bank vegetation. Riparian
zones provide habitat for wildlife such as turtles, muskrats, deer and waterfowl.
Tree root systems supply instream cover for fish and other aquatic organisms.
They also aid in enhancing the beauty of the land. The U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service in their publication, Riparian Forest Buffers,
describes specifications for managing a riparian zone on the following page.
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1. Streambed forests should be used in conjunction with sound land
management systems that include nutrient management and sediment and
erosion control.
2. Sediment removal-The streamside forest must be wide enough to filter
sediment from surface runoff. Maximal effectiveness depends on uniform
shallow overland flow. Percent removal of total suspended solids is a good
indicator of effectiveness.
3. Nutrient removal-periodic flooding and the presence of forest litter
contribute to conversion of nitrate to gaseous nitrogen by denitrification. Plant
uptake also accounts for significant removal of nitrogen...
4. Periodic minor ground shaping may be necessary to encourage dispersed
flow and prevent concentrated flow.
5. A portion of the riparian forest immediately adjacent to die stream should be
managed to maintain a stable streamside ecosystem and to provide detritus and
large stable debris to the stream.
6. Crown cover should be managed to minimize fluctuations in stream
temperature and to maintain stream temperatures within the range necessary for
instream aquatic habitat.
7. Instream slash and debris removal practices should be revised to conserve
existing large stable debris by retaining useful stable portions of jams whenever
possible, unstable tops and smaller debris with potential to form problem jams
should be removed a sufficient distance to prevent re-entry during storm events.
The following, from a report in the Watershed Restoration Sourcebook, put
together by the Anacostia Restoration Team, Metropolitan Council of
Governments in Washington, D.C., offers some other ideas to consider when
planting and maintaining a riparian zone:
Existing Cover:
The first factor to investigate is adjacent or reference
forests. This will provide a target forest for use in species
selection. One can either investigate historical data on
forest cover, or compare adjacent relatively undisturbed
forest types. The reference forest description should
include herbaceous, understory and dominant plant species.
Existing cover should also be evaluated for its ability to
provide shading and bank stability. Visual estimates of
canopy coverage both over the stream aad planting areas
can provide a qualitative assessment of tins fkctor (see
Maryland Forest Conservation Manual for procedures). If
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an abundance of exotic species are found on site, one may
direct reforestation efforts to other sites, or it may be
necessary to employ intensive site clearing and
maintenance activities.
The third factor to evaluate is the potential for natural
regeneration. Natural regeneration is the ability of a forest
stand to perpetuate itself through native soil and standing
crop seed sources, and sprouting. It is typically measured
through examination of the number of free-to-grow
seedlings found in the understory, evaluation of the
adjacent forest stand and other site conditions. This will
be of assistance when evaluating reforestation techniques.
A professional forester should be consulted in this
assessment.
Bank Stability:
An assessment of die stability of the streambanks is an
important factor in reforestation planning. Flash flows,
characteristic of urban streams, often result in severe
erosion, reforestation prefects may have to be delayed until
structural bank stabilization is accomplished. Overly steep
banks, frequent and recent tree fall, and poor bank
vegetation near base flow level are signs of active erosion.
Also, through visual assessment of trunk displacement and
the branching patterns of new growth, one can qualitatively
note the history of bank erosion.
Less severe erosion, as might be found in areas of intensive
turf management abutting streambanks, may be effectively
handled through riparian reforestation. By creating "no-
mow" zone along streams can in many cases provide
adequate structure to die eroding banks. Decisions, such as
these should be made through interdisciplinary teams of
hydrologists, engineers and foresters.
Soils:
Urban soils are highly variable and often bear little
resemblance to native parent materials found in thg subsoil.
For that reason, it is highly recommended that a thorough
evaluation of soils be consulted prior to plant selection and
site preparation. Probably the most useful soil analysis to
conduct is a 36" soil probe through which obstructions,
urban debris and general soil compaction can be noted.
Other qualitative data such as assessments of structure,
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density, moisture, presence of hydric soils or fill can also
be collected through these methods. A representative
collection of soil samples should also be evaluated through
a laboratory evaluation to determine soil contamination and
recommendations for soil amendments. A detailed
discussion of soils evaluation is included in the Maryland
Forest Conservation Manual (MWCOG, 1991).
Hydrology:
Reforestation planning should also take into account
flooding or overbank flow frequency as defined through
published hydrologic data or other local resources. Depth
to water table should be determined using USDA Soil
Conservation surveys or field surveys. Urban riparian
areas, in spite of their proximity to open water, are often
disconnected from the water table. Knowledge of
hydrological conditions will insure proper selection of
plant materials based on moisture conditions.
Adjacent Land Uses:
Areas of high recreational use adjacent to planting sites
may affect the survivability of planted materials or
potential for vandalism. Aesthetics may play a larger part
of reforestation design because of added visibility. The
density of plantings in high use [areas] may have to be
lower to provide a more park-like setting or open areas.
Competing land uses such as use of stream corridors for
flood control or utility right of way should also be
determined. In die case of flood control structures,
planting may be limited to very low densities and narrow
width because of potential loss of flood control storage.
Over time, flood management agencies such as the Army
Corps of Engineers have begun to develop alternative
management policies, such as allowing for selective
clearing and jwrngginp instead of the traditional clearing of
riparian zones. Utility lines should also be investigated on
site.
The Watershed Restoration Sourcebook also gives some tips for maintaining
riparian zones:
Success in saving priority forests on site requires the
incorporation of various protective measures. The fast is
to determine the area around trees that must remain
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undisturbed, referred to as the critical root zone. Most
guidance on construction around trees defines the critical
root zone as the area within a canopy's dripline. Recent
studies have shown that, depending on soils, species,
growth patterns, etc., the most important roots are likely to
grow considerably beyond a tree's dripline (Schnelle et al.
1989). It is important to protect the entire Critical Root
Zone and not just those roots within the dripline.
The keys to protecting trees during construction include
good on-site communication and timing. On-site
construction personnel must be informed of the purpose
and plans of any tree protection program. All information
shorn be documented on die site plans directly. Liability
and responsibility should be clearly defined so construction
personnel, including the people on the bulldozers,
understand that they may have a stake in the success of the
project.
The other important factor to consider is the use of the best
technology available. This means using good stress
reduction techniques (crown and root pruning) where
possible, especially on specimen trees adjacent to
disturbance. For example, when pruning roots, it is crucial
to cut roots cleanly, and not to tear diem apart with a
backhoe. Using temporary tree protection fencing with
highly visible flagging and signs informs everyone of
protection intentions. Permanent protection systems may
also be considered with highly impacted trees. These
include aeration systems for the roots or retaining walls to
minimize grading.
Providing Future Protection
The final and most important step is insuring die survival
of protected forests for the long term. Without proper legal
protection and property owner education, protected forests
can be "encroached to death." Adequate protection is
accomplished through homeowner association covenants,
conservation easements, and approved forest conservation
and management plans.
Figure 1. on the following page, illustrates surface and ground water flow and
defines streamside forest buffer zones.
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Figure 1. The Streamside Forest Buffer. Riparian Forest Buffers. U.S.
Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
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HI. AQUATIC PERMITS AND REGULATIONS
A GUIDE TO PERMITS REQUIRED FOR WORK
WITHIN STREAMS IN THE STATE OF TENNESSEE
STATE OF TENNESSEE WATER QUALITY PERMITS
Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit (ARAP)
General Permits
Schedule of Fees
How to Obtain an ARAP application
Section 401 Water Quality Certification
ASSOCIATED FEDERAL PERMITS
Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 permit
Army Coips of Engineers Section 10 permit
This information has been compiled by the Division of
Water Pollution Control as a guide to the State of Tennessee
and associated federal permits required for work within
streams.
Many of die most commonly asked questions about both die
state and federal permit programs are outlined. Additional
information may be obtained by writing the Division of
Water Pollution Control, 6th Floor L & C Annex, 401
Church Street, Nashville, TN 37243-1534; or calling the
Division at (615) 532-0625.
Performing unauthorized work in waters of the state and/or
waters of me United States or failing to comply with permit
terms and conditions may result in civil penalties and/or
ordered mitigation of the area.
When in doubt as to whether a planned activity needs a
permit, contact the nearest Division of Water Pollution
Control field office or the central office in Nashville. Ffeld
offices are located in Memphis, Jackson, Nashville,
Knoxville, Chattanooga, end Johnson City. The complete
list of address and phone numbers for these offices is
included in this section.
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STATE OF TENNESSEE WATER QUALITY PERMITS
Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit (ARAP)
The Tennessee Water Quality Control Act of 1977, Section 69-3-108(b)(l),
states in part:
It shall be unlawful for any person...
to alter the physical, chemical, radiological,
biological, or bacteriological properties of any
waters of the state, except in accordance with die
conditions of a valid pennit
Streams, lakes, reservoirs, groundwater, and wetlands of any size are considered
waters of the State pursuant to the Act Private farm ponds without an inlet,
outlet or groundwater source are not regulated under die Act.
Any activity which involves the alteration of waters of the State will require
some type of state and, possibly, federal permit Federal permits, under Section
404 of the Clean Water Act, and subsequent state certification, under Section
401, are required for projects involving die discharge of dredged or fill material
into waters of the U.S. or wetlands. Aquatic Resource Alteration permits are
required for any alteration of waters of the State including wetlands if a 404
permit is not required. Examples of stream alteration activities requiring
permits include:
1. dredging, widening, straightening,
bank stabilization,
2. levee construction,
3. channel relocation,
4. water diversions or dams,
5. water withdrawals,
6. flooding, excavating, or draining a
wetland.
General Permits For Alteration of Aquatic Resources
General permits are available for certain activities that involve alterations of
waters of the State. General permits provide authorization for«etivities which
cause minimal individual or cumulative impacts to water quality. The
regulations establish specific, enforceable standards of pollution control for
work authorized by them. General permits are availabl»for the following
activities:
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16
1. Construction of launching ramps,
2. Alteration of wet weather conveyances,
3. Minor road stream crossings,
4. Utility line stream crossings,
5. Bank stabilization (of streams),
6. Sand and gravel dredging, within the stream corridor,
7. Debris removal.
Notification of intent must be made to the Division of Water Pollution Control
prior to commencement of work for all of the general permitted activities above
except alteration of wet weather conveyances, utility line crossings, and debris
removal. Each of these activities has specific limitations for work, but if they
can be done in compliance with the requirements, the landowner can begin
work immediately. If the activity cannot be accomplished under the conditions
of the general permit, an individual Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit will be
required. An individual permit requires that the applicant's proposal be made
available for public comment for a period of 30 days, and will usually take from
60 to 90 days to process.
Debris removal is authorized under the general permit and anyone can remove
trees, logs, trash, debris, etc. anytime they wish without notifying the Division
as long as they comply with the conditions of the general permit.
Copies of general permits can be obtained by contacting the Department's
Division of Water Pollution Control, Natural Resources Section in Nashville,
TN at (615) 532-0625.
Schedule of Fees
As of July 1, 1992, application fees for 401 certifications and ARAP permits
must be submitted with the application prior to project cpview and issuance of a
permit. There are no fees for the general permits described above except gravel
dredging. The following fee schedule applies for all indftadual permits and
gravel dredging general permits:
ARAP or 401 Cert, for 404 permit:
(a) Commercial Applicant equal to or greater
than 10 acres or equal to or greater than
1000 feet $3000
(b) Commercial Applicant less than
10 acres and/or less than 1000
feet of stream work $1000
(c) Gravel Dredging-Commercial
(Annual Maintenance Fee) $ 100
(d) Individual Applicant
(Non-commercial) $ 50
(e) Gravel Dredging-Individual $ 0
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17
Commercial Applicant is an applicant for an activity which is performed in the
course of the applicant's business or service (businesses, governmental entities,
etc.).
Individual Applicant is an applicant for an activity which is non-commercial
and is to be conducted on the applicant's property.
How to Obtain An Application for an Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit
Information and applications for an Aquatic Resource Alteration Permits may
be obtained from any of die Tennessee Department of Environment and
Conservation's Division of Water Pollution Control field offices located in
Memphis, Jackson, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga and Johnson City:
Division of Water Pollution Control
Memphis Field Office
Perimeter Park, 2500 Mt. Moriah-Suite E645
Memphis, TN 38115-1520
(901) 368-7939
Division of Water Pollution Control
Jackson Field Office
295 Summar
Jackson, TN 38301
(901) 661-6200
Division of Water Pollution Control
Nashville Field Office
537 Brick Church Park Drive
Nashville, TN 37247-1550
(615) 741-7391
Division of Water Pollution Control
Natural Resources Section
6th Floor L & C Annex
401 Church St.
Nashville, TN 37243-1534
(615) 532-0625
Division of Water Pollution Control
Knoxville Field Office
2700 Middlebrook Pk.
Suite 220
Knoxville, TN 37921
(615) 594-6035
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18
Division of Water Pollution Control
Chattanooga Field Office
550 McCallie Ave. Suite 550.
Chattanooga, TN 37402
(615) 634-5745
Division of Water Pollution Control
Johnson City Field Office
2305 Silverdale Rd.
Johnson City, TN 37601
(615) 854-5400
After a complete ARAP application and the correct fee are received for an
activity that requires an individual permit, a description of the proposed project
will be issued in a public notice. Tnis involves a 30 day comment penod in
which any interested party can make comments on possible impacts ot tne
project.
After the 30 day comment period, if it is determined that the proposed activity
will not cause pollution, a permit will be issued that will contain conditions to
protect water quality. The applicant must comply with the permit conditions.
Section 401 Water Quality Certification
Section 401 of the Federal Clean Water Act requiresthatmyappHcantfora
Federal license or permit to conduct an actmty which will result majhscharge
into waters of the United States, shall provide the federal agency from which a
permit is sought a certificate from the state water pollutiOi^o^ot^ency that
any such discharge will comply with applicable water
Federal permits which require Watert^ityC^fication from AeTennessee
Division of Water Pollution Control include 404 pe™148 IJ
Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged 0T/lU ^
from the Tennessee Valley Authonty, and permits for hydroelectric projects
from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
ASSOCIATED FEDERAL PERMITS
Activities that Reouire a Section 404 Permit
A section 404 permit application can be obtained from the Corps of Engineers
(COE) District Engineer's office. Offices in Tennessee are located in Memphis
(901) 544-3471 and Nashville (615) 736-5181.
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19
After a 404 permit application has been submitted to them, the Corps will issue
a Public Notice describing the project and its purpose. Corps personnel may
visit the site to determine existing conditions and delineate the boundaries of
any wetlands which might be present.
The public-notice will be prepared by the District Corps of Engineer's office
which has jurisdiction. This public notice is sent to the Division of Water
Pollution Control, other state and federal agencies, and interested parties. There
is a 30 day period to allow comments to be submitted to the Corps concerning
possible impacts to the waterbody or wetlands, suggested mitigation for impacts
resulting from the project, and other related information.
The Division of Water Pollution Control will request the applicant to submit the
correct fee when it receives a copy of the Public Notice from the Corps. After
receipt of the correct fee, the Division will review the proposed project to
determine its effects on water quality. If the proposal is acceptable, the
Division will issue Section 401 Certification to the applicant within 90 days of
receipt of the fee. Before the Division can make a determination, the applicant
must address such issues as avoidance of wetlands, minimization of impacts,
and compensatory mitigation for any unavoidable loss of wetlands due to the
proposed project. The certification will contain conditions under which the
project must be completed and the applicant must comply with them.
Once Section 401 certification has been issued to the applicant by the Division,
the Corps can issue a Section 404 permit to the applicant. The issuance of 401
Certification by the State does not guarantee that die Corps will issue a 404
Permit. The Corps uses different criteria for permitting decisions and must
consider issues other than just water quality.
U.S. Armv Corps of Engineers Section 10 Permit
Activities that require a Section 10 permit include:
1. dredge and fill activities within navigable
waters of the United States,
2. excavating within navigable waters of the
United States,
3. Transporting dredged material, for the
purpose of damping it into ocean waters.
Applications for a Section 10 permit and a list of navigable waters in Tennessee
can be obtained at your nearest Anny Corns ofEagineers (COE) District office.
Field offices are located in Memphis and Nashville.
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20
IV. STREAM DYNAMICS
Streams are inherently dynamic systems. It is their nature to flood and to
change their course. Erosion of stream banks and redeposition of stream bed
materials is a natural parts of this process. Historically, man has endeavored to
alter streamflow. Often this is done with a goal of reducing natural flooding or
stabilizing shifting channels.
Some aspects of the dynamic nature of streams are not apparent from
observations made over the relatively short span of a few years. Even streams
which seem to have a stable, well defined channel constantly shift and meander
when viewed over long time periods.
In the tarns of physics, moving water has kinetic energy which will inevitably
do work. The faster the water moves, the more energy within the system. For
centuries, humans have capitalized on this ability of moving water to do work
by using it to power mills and more recently, to generate electricity. The energy
of streams is naturally expended by transporting stream bed materials and by
shifting channel alignments by bank erosion and deposition.
Typically, the activities of humans accelerate the natural processes of steam
dynamics. Clearing of forest cover and development ofiiard surfaces such as
roof tops and pavement increase runoff rates and nonpoint source pollutant
loading. Flood control efforts such as levee construction and channel
straightening or enlargement confine water to the channel during higher flow
periods. All of these activities increase the volume and velocity of water within
a stream during high flow periods. This increased energy worsens channel
erosion and increases rates of bank failure and down-citing. "Die excess
material transported by streams under such conditions is deposited at a point
downstream where the rate of flow is slowed because of changes in gradient,
blockages or other flow restrictions.
Almost without exception, localized efforts to control the periodic flooding and
natural shifting of channels results in the worsening of the very "problems" we
seek to correct The more stream management problems are addressed in the
context of an entire watershed, and the better we are able to understand and
accommodate natural stream processes, the more successful our efforts will be.
The production of this guide acknowledges the need to address localized bank
erosion problems. It is an effort to present background information and
workable solutions which willprotect water quality and maintain stream
benefits and aquatic habitat. Tie growing bodv of research and experience
indicates that management techniques which qfnulate nature and work with
natural stream processes are more successful and economical.
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21
The following illustration shows how stream dynamics affects streambank
erosion and deposition:
Cut Sank
OutiM* MmdMt B»ne
taut tv • n«QB«mnn Cut Mm - Mm
Figure 2. Streambank erosion and deposition. Streambank Stabilization and
Management Guide, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of
Environmental Resources.
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22
V. REMOVING OBSTRUCTIONS
Logjams in the stream can contribute to degrading habitat and water quality by
trapping debris and sediment and restricting flow. In general, it is always best
to use the smallest equipment possible when removing obstructions and try not
to disturb vegetation. If it is necessary to remove vegetation, disturbed areas
should be replanted or sodded. (See chapter VI-D., Conventional Vegetation).
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of
Waters, in their publication, Streambank Erosion.. Gaining A Greater
Understanding,'.
Obstacles in the stream can be either natural or manmade.
A natural obstacle could be a tree that has fallen into the
stream, or the mass of soil that enters the channel when a
bank collapses, for example. Examples of man-made
obstacles are bridges, dams, or any other type of structure
that will affect the flow in the stream. The effect of an
obstacle is to alter the natural flow of water in the stream.
Erosion or deposition can occur in the stream channel if
the streamflow is altered significant^. If a tree that has
fallen into the stream slows die velocity of the flow, then
the suspended sediment will be deposited, forming a
pointbar. Or perhaps some other type of obstacle^rill
divert the flow from its normal path into the bank of a
stream, causing severe erosion of the bank. Either one of
these situations can cause problems directly, or they can
indirectly create problems downstream as the stream
adjusts itself to these new conditions imposed upon it.
The same handbook also points out that it is important to remove potential
obstacles before they become a problem:
A dead tree hanging over die stream can be
considered a potential obstacle. By removing a
potential obstacle before it falls into the stream,
future erosion problems can be prevented, or the
problem that was just eliminated can be prevented
from occurring again. When a dead tree is removed,
the stump and roots should be left in place, so that
the roots can continue to provide support for the
streambank.
Figure 3, from Stream Obstruction Removal Guidelines, by the American
Fisheries Society, illustrates how streams are affected by different types of
obstructions and includes general and specific criteria for clearing obstructions.
-------
v; <. •: i w * -=r'? - •
% li'i' -
«»/¦<; water level 11|[| ^B»
^lili^f water»«fvef-
SKSgW-TK;
,« water level-
' i I v'^,7,-
d§S»«^Ii^s£
¦^,„ sediment S®®
fcafeWi Water in
tooaowin .»W2*
%safli Jt nomwl (low 805«
^¦rn^vjgv////:nii^;'
water level
ieMpt®
t#*toW Cntieal
Definition of Stream Obstruction
Conditions
Condition One
These stream segments haw acceptable flow and no work would
be required- They may contain various amounts of mstream deDns
and fine sediment, such as silt. sand, gravel. rubble. Doulders. logs and
Drush In certain situations flow may be impeded, but due to stream
and land dassificaDon or adjacent land-use. tnis is not a problem
Condition Two
These stream segments currently have no major flow impediments,
but existing conditions are such that obstructions are likely to form in
the near future, causing unacceptable problems This condition is
generally characterized by small accumulations of logs and/or other
debns which occasionally span the entire stream width Accumula-
tions are isolated, not massive and do not presently cause upstream
ponding damages.
Condition Three
These stream segments have unacceptable flow problems. Ob-
structions arc generally characterized by large aco/riutaDons of lodged
trees, root wads, and/or other debns that frequently span the enure
stream width. Although impeded, some flow moves through the
obstruction. Large amounts of fine sediment have not covered or
lodged in the obstruction
Condition Four
These stream segments are characterized by major blockages caus-
ing unacceptable flow problems. Obstructions consist of compacted
debns and/or sediment that severely restricts flow
Condition Five
These stream segments possess unique, sensitive, or especially
valuable tuooc resources and should be dealt with on a case-by-case
basis Examples include, but are not limited to: Areas haitxxing rare
or endangered species, shellfish beds, fish spawning and reanng
areas, and rookeries
~7~\ZP
y//A^_ b/ApTX*' ^Wwning areas
General Criteria
No stream work, including bank clearing, repositioning, or removal
of material, should be allowed except at specific locations where
unacceptable flow problems occur or may occur in tne near future
Where stream work is needed, access roues fcr equipment should
be selected to minimize disturbance to the floodplain and npanan
areas {Figure 12). Channel excavation and debris removal also should
oe accomplished in a manner that minimizes clearing of vegetation
The smallest equipment feasible should oe used If tributaries or
distributaries must be disturbed by the project they shall be restored
when the work is completed. All disturbed areas shall be reseeded or
replanted with plant species which will stabilize soils and benefit fish
and wildlife.
figure3. Stream ObstructionRemoval Criteria, "StreamObstruction Removal
Guidelines,' American Fisheries Society and the Wildlife Society
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free log
fine sediment
and gravel
Normal flow often diverted
to floodplain
pool
Small deoris
accumulation
Some ponding
usually evident
oostrucuon
(deoris oiockagej
rookery I herons)
critical
area
bouiaer —
nffie
affixed log
point oar
Specific Criteria
Condition One Segments. No work snail De conducted m
Condition One Segments
Condition Two Segmentx Equipment mat will cause the least
damage to trie environment snail De selected for performing me
work, first consideration will c>e given to me use of hand operated
equipment such as axes, cnain saws, and wineries to remove
accumulations Figure 13). Boats wim motors may De used wnere
needed (Figure 14J. When me use of hand operated equipment is
not feasiDle. heavier equipment may De used Examples include:
small tractors Dackhoes, Bulldozers log skiddeis. and low PSI
equipment fFigure 15|. Equipment shall De operated m a manner
that results in me least damage to vegetation and soils of the
project area In some cases explosives may De used resulting m
less damage. Deons designated for removal from the stream or
floodway should De removed or secured in such a manner as to
restrict its re-entry into me channel. Generally, it should De posi-
tioned so as to reduce flood flow impediment
Condition Three Segments. Equipment limitations will De the
same as for condition two segments Work shall De accomplished
within me enamel or from one side of the channel where possiDie
IFigure 16| Selective tree clearing shall De limited to the minimum
clearing necessary for equipment access and efficient operation of
equipment on the worked side of me channel Disposal of material
may De accomplished Dy removing it from the floodplain or Dy
Durrnng. Durying. or piling, as appropriate, with me minimum
amount of disturbance to vegetation Piled deoris shall De gapped
at frequent intervals and at all inoutaries and distriDutaries
Condition Four Segments. Blockage removal may employ any
equipment necessary to accomplisn the work m me least damag-
ing manner IFigure 17|. Work should De accomplished from one
side of the channel, where practical Material shall De disposed in
accordance with guidelines presented aoove for condioon mree
segments IFigure IS) Spoil piles should De constructed as high as
sediment properties allow The placement of spoil around the
Dases of mature trees should De avoided
Condition Five Segments. Special provisions for protecting unique,
sensitive, or productive Diooc resources snail De developed Dy
appropriate professionals on a case Dy case Dasis
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25
VI. STREAM STABILIZATION METHODS
A. CONVENTIONAL BANK ARMORING
Bank armoring is probably the most widely used method of protecting eroding
banks. It basically involves using a combination of stone riprap, lumber, sand,
and gravel to help prevent banks from washing away. Riprap may be used
alone, or gabions and cribs may be constructed.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers explains how riprap can be used to control
erosion in their publication, Mitigating the Impacts of Stream Alterations:
When erosion control is required on the bank and stream
velocities are too swift to successfully establish vegetative
cover, large angular stone, or riprap, provides effective
protection and also enhances habitat for aquatic life.
Erosion of nonporous soils behind riprap can occur if a
filter blanket of gravel or commercial netting is not placed
on the bank before installing the riprap. Stone used for
riprap must be of sufficient size to resist washing
downstream-generally greater than 12" in diameter and
over 100 pounds. Larger rock should be placed at the
bottom of the bank below the elevation of base flow to
insure that the largest crevices or spaces between stones
are available to serve as habitat for aquatic life. Smaller
stones can be placed above the flow line. Shrubs, trees, or
grasses can be planted immediately above the riprap, which
should extend up to expected high-flow elevations.
Cribs and gabions are structures that hold rock, sand or gravel in place. The
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Waters describes
gabions and cribs as effective methods of controlling erosion in their book,
Streambank Erosion... Gaining A Greater Understanding:
GABIONS:
Gabions are wire boxes into which stones may be placed.
They are a commonly used substitute for riprap. The
advantages are that smaller stones may be used in cases
where suitable riprap material is either too expensive or not
available, and the placement of the gabions is easier than
placing riprap. The boxes may be stacked along the bank
in whatever manner is most suitable to prevent collapse.
No filter layer is required for the use of gabions, as
opposed to riprap. Periodic inspections should be made, as
the wire is subject to deterioration over the years,
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26
especially in steep streams with coarse material that can
abrade the mesh.
CRIBS:
Cribs are timber boxes built outward from the river bank.
The boxes are filled with sand and gravel. Such boxes,
built in series, can have a protective effect similar to hard
points or rock spur dikes (discussed later in this manual).
They are preferred where timber is cheap and plentiful, or
where rock riprap is not easily available. They are
typically used on smaller streams.
Listed below are some tips for constructing and using riprap and gabions:
RIPRAP
1. Streambank slope of 2:1 or flatter is suggested for best results.
2. Useful in shaded areas, where it may be difficult to establish woody
vegetation.
3. Applicable on actively eroding banks of small to medium sized streams of all
types especially those with widely fluctuating flows.
4. The rough texture of the stone will absorb some energy from the stream and
decrease its velocity near the bank.
5. Habitat benefits are increased through joint planting. The gaps between
submerged rock provide cover for instream fauna.
6. Riprap is relatively inexpensive when stone is available locally. Heavy
machinery is often required to move the stone.
7. Because rock absorbs solar radiation readily it can thermally impact a stream
especially in unshaded areas.
8. One-half of the bottom layer of stone should be below stream grade.
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27
GABIONS
1. The effectiveness of gabions for stabilizing streambanks is improved when
vegetation is incorporated.
2; Soil retention is improved when filter fabric is sandwiched between the soil
and gabion basket. Some filter fabrics may inhibit the establishment of
vegetation.
3. Appearance of the structure is improved through joint plantings. For
successful plant growth, infertile soil must be covered with topsoil.
4. Maintenance costs increase with age as the wire baskets become corroded
and abraded.
5. Gabions are useful for protecting steep banks where scouring or undercutting
are problems.
6. Gabions are applicable on medium to large size streams of all types.
7. Rusting and corrosion of the wire baskets reduce the long-term durability of
these structures.
Figures 4 and 5 illustrate examples of bank armoring techniques.
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Ripiap
28
Filter Stone or Filter Fabric
Maximum Slop* 3 ; 5
Riprap Toe
Figure 4. Riprap Construction, Controlling Streambank Erosion, April 1993
Draft, Georgia Soil and Water Commission.
LID
NEXA50NAL ^
ICSM
3 01APKRAGUS
W/3 DIAPHRAGMS
assemble e
PUK GABION.
FILL WITH
ROtXS SECJS£
70 P.
BACXFILL 6 TAMP.
2:i SLOPE EEHIND
GABION BREAST WALL
«SEM!|.E ft PLACE
2 nt. GAEION
ASSEMBLE 8
GAElOH. FlU.
*ITH ROCXS
SECURE TOP.
.O"-"
ORIGINAL
0?'. CUT SLOPE
\\V BACKFILL &
TAMP r InW
FOUKOAT19K
EXCAVATE '.EVE'.
/
BACKFILL & TAMP
2:) SLOPE BEHIND ^
GABION BREAST
WALL
•V
C9-
1*"°* t ORIGINAL
b> CUT SLOP-
EXCAVATE LEVEL
FOUNDATION
SINGt; Tlr R
Figure 5. Gabion Construction, Controlling Streambank Erosion, April 1993
Draft, Georgia Soil and Water Commission.
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29
B. STREAM STABILIZATION STRUCTURES
Severely eroded banks may benefit from stabilization structures built into the
bank, such as hard points, jacks and posts, spur dikes, fences, and sheet pilings
and walls. All of these structures function in a similar manner by trapping
sediment and debris: The deposition of sediment allows trees, shrubs, and
grasses to grow, which help to reduce erosion even more.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of Water gives
examples of stream stabilization methods such as fences, spur dikes, pile dikes,
hard points, and jacks and posts publication, "Streambank Erosion... Gaining
a Greater Understanding
FENCES
Fences composed of boards or wires can be used on small
streams to serve a similar function as jacks and posts. The
overall effect is to reduce flow velocities and induce
deposition. The fences are placed in series much like jacks
and posts, but may be placed either along the bank parallel
to the current, or out into the channel like hard points.
Fences protect the upper portions of a bank only, and
should not be used in cases where bank undercutting and
bank toe erosion is a problem.
SPUR DIKES
Rock spur dikes are similar to hard points, except that they
extend further into the stream. Their purpose is to deflect
the zone of high velocity flow well away from the bank
they are designed to protect. They may occasionally be
used singly, as near a bridge site, but are usually used in a
field. The spur dike furthermost upstream is often
designed to be rather short, and to be angled in the
downstream direction. The spur dikes farther downstream
may be longer and more nearly perpendicular to the flow.
A rough guideline for the design of spur dikes is that each
dike protects a length of bank that is about twice the
distance to which the dike protrudes into the stream.
Rock spur dikes are typically constructed by end dumping
from trucks. A properly designed dike field can require
less rock, and be less expensive, than riprap. On the other
hand, the tip of each rock dike usually needs to be supplied
with an extra stockpile of stone in order to counter severe
local scour during floods.
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30
PILE DIKES
Pile dikes are permeable dikes that consist of tied rows of
timber piles driven into the streambed from the streambank
outward into the stream channel. Like rock spur dikes,
they are typically constructed in fields of more than one
dike. They allow for considerable flow between the piles.
The effect of the piles, however, is to slow the flow
velocity in the region of the piles, which reduces the
erosive force on the bank. An added benefit is the
tendency for river-borne sediment to collect between the
dikes. This action can result in the gradual re-deposition of
a severely eroded bank. Pile dikes are suitable for sandy-
bottomed streams with a good supply of suspended
sediment. They are less suitable for coarse, steep rivers,
where rock spur dikes are preferred.
HARD POINTS
Hard points are short spurs of rock or stone that extend
from the bank into the stream. The purpose of a hard point
is to stabilize the stream bank by creating a low velocity
zone along the bank downstream of the hard point. In this
way, hardpoints protect a streambank by reducing the
velocity of the flow along the bank to a level that will not
cause erosion. A hard point will protect approximately 5
feet of bank for each foot of hard point spur protruding into
the stream. For example, a spur that reaches 20 ft. into the
stream will protect 100 ft. of bank downstream of the hard
point.
A hard point is made of two parts, the extension into the
stream and the "root" that is buried into the bank of the
channel. The root is typically the same length as the
extension. Hard points are typically placed as a series of
spurs in which erosion between the structures continues
until equilibrium is reached. Because this erosion
continues for a time after the structures are completed, hard
points are not suitable for locations where no further
erosion is acceptable. [See Figure 6.]
JACKS AND POSTS
Jacks and posts are structures placed along the bank of a
stream which reduce flow velocities and induce deposition
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31
of sediment. The structures are joined together and placed
along the bank to form a "field". Flow velocities are
slowed within the fields due to the increase in resistance
caused by the field. The sediment that is deposited as a
result of this reduction in flow velocity serves as a suitable
area for the growth of trees such as willows and
cottonwoods, and underbrush. The growth of this
vegetation further serves to protect the streambank by
increasing its stability.
Jacks usually are constructed with concrete or steel beams
(sometimes wood), with the most common configuration
being three beams bolted together at right angles at their
middles.
They resemble "teepees", which are then placed in fields
by constructing one or more rows along the bank, and [are]
anchored to both the bank and the channel bottom.
Posts serve the same function as jacks, but are not
configured in the "teepee" shape. They are planted as
vertical posts along the bank in the same type of fields as
are jacks.
Steel cables are often strung between the jacks or posts to
strengthen the field. These cables also catch debris, which
serves to induce more deposition.
Jacks and posts are subject to damage caused by large
debris and floating ice, as well as high-velocity flows
which can lift the jacks or posts from the stream bed.
Jacks and posts are ineffective in high velocity streams,
and streams with low sediment loads because not enough
deposition occurs. [See Figure 7.]
The methods described in this section help control erosion by providing a
protective barrier between stream and bank, and by actually slowing the flow
and directing the current away from streambanks. The methods used will
depend upon stream conditions: jacks and posts are used on steep banks, while
shallower channels can be improved simply by using hard points or dikes,
which are easier to construct.
The following figures illustrate stream stabilization structures:
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32
Figure 6 - Example of Hardpoints. Streambank Erosion...
Gaining a Greater Understanding, Minnesota Department
of Natural Resources.
Figure 7 - Jacks and Posts. Streambank Erosion...
Gaining A Greater Understanding, Minnesota Department
of Natural Resources.
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33
C. IN-STREAM STRUCTURES
Earlier in this book, obstruction removal methods were described. However,
sometimes it is helpful to place trees in the streams. Tree revetments are
carefully placed in the stream and anchored firmly in place (see Figure 8). The
Missouri Department of Conservation describes tree revetments as "an
inexpensive, effective way of stopping streambank erosion." Their publication,
Tree Revetment for Streambank Stabilization, describes how tree revetments
help control erosion:
The trees greatly slow the current along the eroding bank; this decreases
erosion and allows silt and sand to be deposited along the bank and
within the tree branches. The deposited material forms a good seed bed
in which the seeds of river trees such as cottonwood and sycamore can
sprout and grow. The resulting trees spread roots throughout the
revetment and streambank. By the time the revetment trees have
decayed, the bank should be stabilized by the roots of the living trees.
As an added benefit, tree revetments provide excellent fish and wildlife
cover. [See Figure 31.]
Figure 8. Tree Revetments Placement. Tree Revetments for Streambank
Stabilization, Missouri Department of Conservation.
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34
The Missouri Department of Conservation gives the following pointers for
building a tree revetment:
1. The more limbs and fine branches a tree has, the better it
will slow current and trap silt in a tree revetment. For this
reason, eastern red cedar is usually the best choice. Cedar
trees have the added advantage of good resistance to decay.
Hardwood trees with brushy tops (Tike pin oak) will also
work.
2. Trees growing in uncrowded conditions are usually the
best choice because their branches are denser. When
growing in close competition with other trees, even cedars
can have sparse tops.
3. It is best to cut live trees for revetments; trees which
have been dead for some time are usually brittle and may
break apart as they are moved into place and anchored.
4. Tree size is important. The diameter of the tree's crown
should be about two-thirds the height of the eroding bank.
A large tree covers more bank than a small one and isn't
much more difficult to move into place. Both time and
money can be saved by using the biggest trees available.
Trees that are more than 20 feet tall are best for most
streambanks.
5. After felling trees, it is best to cut off any trunk at the
bottom of the tree that is without limbs. The tree limbs are
what protects the bank-any excess trunk is simply extra
weight that makes it more difficult to move the tree into
place.
6. Extreme caution should be used in operating heavy
equipment to move the trees. Trees should be well
anchored on both ends and the butt ends should be placed
upstream. Tree revetments work best on streambanks less
than 12' high. There should be no gaps left between
revetments.
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35
Wing deflectors help to direct flow away from banks and to the middle of the
channel. Table 1. provides good information about where to place instream
structures in low to high gradient streams. Dams and weirs provide gradients in
otherwise wide, shallow streams, helping to create pools and scour area, which
enhance aquatic habitat and attract fish. The turbulence caused by these
instream structures also increase dissolved oxygen, important to fish and
wildlife. Instream structures are described in "Best Management Practices for
Improving Water Quality in the West Sandy Watershed," (Gore, Finley,
Hamilton).
DAMS
The advantages of low-head dam (weir) placement are
numerous and include : formation of pool habitat,
collecting and holding spawning gravels, encouraging
gravel bar/riffle formation, improving flow patterns,
trapping suspended sediments, reoxygenating water,
allowing organic debris deposition and promoting
invertebrate production.
Siting considerations for weirs in general are:
[1] they are most successful in low order streams where
maximum discharges generally do not exceed 6 m3/s,
[2] location is best in a straight, narrow reach at the lower
end of a steep break in gradient,
[3] banks should be stable and well defined,
[4] it should be possible to anchor both ends of the dam
well into the banks (say, 2 m or more),
[5] successive structures should be placed no closer than 5
to 7 channel widths apart,
[6] availability of natural construction materials can make
a project much more economically feasible.
There are essentially two types of low-cost construction
materials to build weirs for habitat restoration:
boulder/rock material and logs, depending upon local
availability.
Rock/boulder dams are ideal for veiy small streams and is
less expensive than log dam construction but require a
source of quanted rocks and availability of large flat rocks
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36
and availability of heavy construction equipment
(especially a back-hoe). A seal is provided by packing
gravels in between boulders and on the upstream side of
the large boulders. If successful, habitat can be enhanced
both upstream and in the plunge pool. Of course, this is a
natural looking and aesthetically pleasing structure.
Problems have been reported with sealing the large flat
boulders, the lack of stability during high flow events, and
some collapsing into the plunge pool. [Editors note:' We
have successfully solved the sealing problem by
enhancing the structures with mylar and other synthetic
sheeting.]
Log dams can be designed in a variety of forms to fit the
location and desired pool height. Anchoring the logs is of
prime consideration and should be considered best when
set into the stream at least one third of the channel width.
Undercutting is a main cause of failure so die base logs
should be imbedded at least 0.2m [6.5']. When the bed is
erodible, a mud sill should be added to die upstream face
and the downstream plunge pool should be lined with large
gravel and small cobbles. To reduce endcutting, the log
ends anchored into the substrate should also be riprapped.
Life of log dams is enhanced by keeping as much of the
logs [as possible] continually wetted. Indeed, a small
amount of overflow in addition to that portion going
through the "spillway" notch will reduce rot and decay.
(See figures 9 and 10, Rock and Log Dams.)
DEFLECTORS
Deflectors are the most commonly used habitat restoration
structure in North America as they are relatively
inexpensive and can be modified for each location and
built with local materials. These appear to be the best
generic enhancement structure and die literature is replete
with success stories, including a doubling of fish
production within a year and significant increases in pool-
riffle sequences within three to five years. The hydrologic
result of placement of deflectors is the natural formation of
scour pools, shelter pools, and riffles while double wings
lead to the formation of deep scour pools. In addition, the
thalweg [channel] becomes more sinuous resulting in a
longer residence time for the water and a greater variety of
velocities and depths in any given channel reach.
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37
General siting criteria for deflectors are listed below:
1. Typical placement is in wider, shallow, lower gradient
streams lacking pools and cover.
2. Reaches with great variation in water surface elevation
should be avoided or construction should be designed to fit
low flow conditions.
3. The bank opposite the deflector must be stable or it
must be provided with some sort of bank protection such as
riprap.
4. Unstable substrates must be avoided; if this is not
possible, then upstream sides must have a mudfill and
downstream substrate must be armored with gravel and
cobble for high flow periods, when undercutting may
occur.
5. Alternating deflectors 5 to 7 channel widths will
provide a natural sinuosity of the flow.
6. Conditions must be such that deflectors can be anchored
at least 2 m [6.5'] into the bank.
7. Use of natural materials enhances low cost
considerations.
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Rock and boukler tow-head dam construction. Adapted from Gore (14).
TOP VIEW
Noluro! Dock!
In Place
Flow
Arch Type ol Contlrucllon
torg* Oblong
Boulders Only
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38
Construction alternatives include log-boulder deflectors,
gabion deflectors, and V-deflectors for mid-stream
separation of the flow. Typically, the deflector is angled
downstream at approximately 45 degrees from the flow
while the back brace is set at approximately 90 degrees
from the deflector. To avoid damage to the deflector, the
maximum elevation should [be] no greater than 0.3 m [1']
above the low flow water surface elevation. V-deflectors
can be effectively used in areas where there exists high
bank stability. Otherwise, these should be avoided, as they
tend to channel flow into areas where energy is dissipated
by bank erosion. A typical layout of deflectors would
include a series of from 5 to 10 deflectors with the most
downstream deflector being a double-wing deflector to
channel the thalweg down the center of the unmanaged and
unregulated portion of the channel.
Although habitat enhancement has been focused mainly on the restoration of
fish communities, these same techniques can be used to enhance benthic
macroinvertebrate communities as well. Benthic macroinvertebrates provide
the food base for a stable fish population and a dynamic lotic community.
According to Gore, from his book, The Restoration of Rivers and Streams -
Theories and Experience, benthic cobble beds, which are formed downstream
of deflectors and in the pools of low head dams are ideal for benthic
macroinvertebrate habitats. The improved water quality, including increased
velocity and depth, attract macroinvertebrates to these restored areas. These
habitats should be fully colonized in 2-3 weeks under optimum conditions,
which include moderate flows. Spring and fall are the best times to establish
benthic communities. Under these circumstances the benthic community could
become stabilized within 3 months. Optimum conditions include adjacent
sources of colonizers from both upstream and downstream unimpacted areas of
the same stream. If these conditions are not met, stabilization of communities
could take considerably longer. Without downstream or upstream sources of
recolonizing fish and invertebrates, recovery has been reported to take five
years or longer (Gore and Milner 1990). Part of any restoration or
rehabilitation plan should include protection of adjacent areas which serve as
nurseries or sources of colonizers. (See Figure 11, Instream structures; and
Figure 34, Rock, Gabion or Log-Frame Deflectors.)
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39
end of
gobionburie'l—»\\
in bonk
.LARGE GABION
log end anchored
DEFLECTOR
gabion basketi
laced end-to-end
v-mesh wire
over grayel
fill
v.-mesh
down ramp
(angled to direct
scour oway from bank
r lnctrMm structures Within a Stream Channel, The
f£a£«J"ri" ¦* F.xpenence, toes Gore.
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LOW GRADIENT STREAMS
(SLOPE LESS THAN 1.5%)
Structure
Stream width in meters(approximate feet)
Less than S.O
(15)
5.0-9.0
(15-30)
9.0-15.0
(30-50)
Over 15.0
(50)
Boulders
Deflectors
3 boulders randomly
placed in thalweg
(Fie.4) below
deflector
Single and double
wing
6 boulders randomly
placed in thalweg
deflector
Single and double
wing
9.12 clumps of 3
boulders randomly
placed in thalweg
below deflector
Single and double
12-25 clumps of 3
boulders randomly
placed every 30 m
(100 ft.)
MEDIUM GRADIENT STREAMS
(slope 1.5 - 6.0%)
Boulders
Deflectors
3 boulders randomly
placed in thalweg
below deflector
6 boulders randomly
placed in thalweg
below deflector
Single and double
wing
9-12 clumps of 3
boulders randomly
placed in thalweg
below deflector
Single and double
wing
12-25 clumps of 3
boulders randomly
placed every 30 it
(100 ft.)
HIGH GRADIENT STREAMS
(slope more than 6.0%)
Boulders
Low Water
Dam
Boulders randomly
placed 7.5-15.0 m
(25-50ft.) apart
located 25.0-30.0 m
(80-100 ft.) apart
Clumps of 2-3
boulders randomly
placed 7.5-15.0 m
(25-50 ft.) apart
Table 1. Use of Instream Structures in Low to High Gradient Streams. Riparian
Forest Buffers. U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
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40
D. CONVENTIONAL VEGETATION
Planting vegetation helps to stabilize banks as root systems help hold soil in
place. In addition, roots provide cover for animals and plant matter provides
food for these organisms. Shrubs and trees help maintain temperature by
shading the water. Plants also help trap sediment as it washes off fields and
prevent some of it from entering streams and rivers. Vegetation is important in
controlling erosion. A combination of trees, shrubs and grasses and plants
should be used to provide variety. Conventional methods involve planting,
seeding, sodding and using fabric blankets. Vegetation may need to be
combined with bank armoring on steep or severely undercut banks. There
should be adequate topsoil to allow root penetration and native, flood-tolerant
plants should be used. The type of vegetation depends on the zone it is planted
in. The three major zones are the splash zone, the bank zone, and the terrace
zone (See Figure 12.) Hollis Allen with the U.S. Army Engineer Waterways
Experiment Station describes basic vegetating techniques in the report,
Streambank Protection With Planted Vegetation:
The entire streambank should be treated to furnish a
maximum array of plants capable of providing proper
ground cover for erosion protection, wildlife habitat, and to
be aesthetically appealing. At times, the planting sites or
zones may be quite narrow in width or difficult to
distinguish. The entire bank in these cases should be
treated as a systematic arrangement of plants and treatment
practices.
Splash zone. This zone should be planted with primarily
reeds, rushes, sedges, and other semi-aquatic plants. This
zone cannot be successfully planted by seeding since the
zone is inundated most of the year. Transplanting during
low water periods is the most practical approach. Three
methods of transplanting are recommended: sprigging,
sodding, and use of reed rolls.
Sprigging is simply just digging, separating, and planting
individual plant stems (sprigs) with some roots or rhizomes
attached. All species should be planted at a rate of 40
sprigging bushels per acre. Sprigs are placed in holes or
narrow trenches so that only aerial sprouts are above the
soil (See Figure 13).
Sodding is a method in which clumps of grass or
herbaceous plants and soil are lifted from existing beds and
transplanted to the disturbed sites. Small sections or plugs
(2-4 inches in width and 4-6 inches in length) can be dug
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and lifted from wild-land sites or nursery or greenhouse
grown. The plugs are placed at a depth in the soil which
allows the aerial parts of the plant to be exposed. Large
rolls of sod also can be lifted and field planted on areas
where surface stability is critical. Sections of sod
containing reeds, reed grasses, rushes, or sedges can be dug
or lifted from native plant communities using large diggers,
front-end loaders, backhoes, etc. The sod or root mass is
then transferred to the planting site and planted (See Figure
14).
Reed rolls are very good to use in the splash zone. They
are constructed by combining sections of sod, rhizomes,
and shoots, and enclosing them within a wire net and
placing all components in a trench. Various herbaceous
plants can be planted in this manner, but the method
particularly lends itself to bulrushes and reed grasses such
as common reed (Phraemites australis)* and reed canary
grass (Phalaris arundinaceaV * [ Editor's note: These
species can be invasive into natural communities. Please
encourage contractors to use varied native species for
this process.]
A trench about 16 inches in width is dug into the bank;
wire netting is stretched across the trench; course gravel,
sod and reed-clumps are placed in the wire net; and the
wire is then drawn around the material and tied with wire.
A row of stakes or planks are placed on each side of the
roll and attached to the wire for stability. The whole
system is then covered just enough to leave aerial stems
exposed. The upper edge of the roll should not be more
than 2 inches above ground level. A plant roll is an
adaptation of this and simply is a cylinder of burlap that
encloses planted material by and fastening with hog rings
or sewing the edges together.
Bank zone. This zone may be exposed to considerable
flooding and wave and current action. If only mild wave
and current action is expected, sodding of flood-tolerant
grasses like reed canary grass, buffalo grass (Buchloe
dactyloides), or switchgrass (Panicum virgatum^ can be
employed to provide rapid bank stabilization. Usually, the
sod must be held in place with wire netting or stakes.
Shrub-like willow, dogwood, and alder transplants or 1-
year-old rooted cuttings are effectively used in this zone
and can augment the sodding practice. These transplant or
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42
cuttings should be planted 1 to 2 feet apart and in rows.
Newly planted banks are usually subject to additional
erosion and the shrub plantings should have mulch placed
over them to serve as temporary protection. Branches of
woody plants are best for this and should be the heaviest
on outside curves of the stream where the current strikes
-the bank. The mulch should be tied town with chicken
wire or wire laced between stakes since the mulch may
float away when flooded.
Where severe erosion is expected, the bank zone should be
further protected using a combination of supportive
measures. Supportive measures that have been used
successfully in Europe and other areas include willow
barriers, fascines, wattles, and stone paving with willow
slips among the stones.
Willow barriers or mats are interlaced willow switches 2 to
3 years old and 5 to 6 feet long that are placed
perpendicular to the bank. The switches are cut from live
willow plants and kept moist until planting. The willow
switches will sprout after planting, but care must be taken
to obtain the switches early in the growing season before
the mother stock has started to grow extensively. Switches
are only 0.4 to 0.6 inches apart and are placed together in a
6-inch deep excavation that is filled in later. The spread
willow switches are held together and in place by wire or
by willow hurdling (willow branches used as strapping)
fastened to stakes. The whole barrier is lightly covered
with earth so that the branches are set in each, but not
completely covered.
Seeding of grasses can be used in addition to sodding, root
pads, and the above supportive measures, but should be
used primarily on gentler sloping sites where current and
wave actions do not greatly impact.
Terrace zone. The terrace zone can generally be planted
by direct seeding and transplanting unless the slopes are
greater than 1 V:3 H. Then, they are likely to need surface
netting and mulching. Supportive structures such as
fascines, wattles, etc., and sodding may be required on
slopes of 1 V: 1 H.
Hydroseeding can be a useful and effective means of direct
seeding, particularly on steep slopes. Often barges with
hydroseeders mounted on them can be floated on the
stream and employed adjacent to the site. Seeds should be
blown on first in a water slurry and then mulches applied
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43
following seeding to reduce soil moisture loss. The mulch
also will tend to tie down and cover the seeds and reduce
immediate surface soil erosion by wind and water.
Sometimes surface drainage water intercepts the terrace
zone from inland areas and can cause gullying not only in
the terrace zone, but in the other zones on the bank. This
water should be diverted or controlled with a small furrow
or trench at the top of the bank. This trench should be
sodded to prevent erosion.
Figure 12., Streambank Zones. "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion
Control Along the Banks of the Missouri River from Garrison Dam
Downstream to Bismarck, South Dakota", L.D. Logan, U.S.D.A. Forest
Service.
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44
Figure 13. Sprigging, "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion Control
Along the Banks of the Missouri River from Garrison Dam Downstream
to Bismarck, South Dakota," L.D. Logan, U.S.D.A. Forest Service
Figure 14, Sodding, "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion Control Along
the Banks of the Missouri River from Garrison Dam Downstream to
Bismarck, South Dakota," L.D. Logan, U.S.D.A. Forest Service.
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45
E. SOIL BIOENGINEERING
The term, soil bioengineering, describes several methods of establishing
vegetation by embedding live plants into streambanks. Soil bioengineering
provides all the benefits of vegetation (i.e., streambank stability, habitat, food
source for aquatic animals, cover and temperature control) much more quickly
than conventional planting. Some involve planting dormant twigs or rolls of
live plants, or installing floating islands or breakwaters. These methods can be
used separately or in combination. Some work best on shoreline or areas where
there is little fluctuation in water levels. Others help to control erosion from
streams subject to frequent flooding.
Several bioengineering techniques are described by Hollis Allen in the report,
"Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation Guidelines", below:
Wattling bundles. Wattling bundles are cigar-shaped
bundles of live switches of willow or other easy-sprouting
woody species that are tied and placed in trenches, staked,
and partially covered with soil. Wattling bundles are
usually placed on contour, starting at the bottom of a slope
and working up.
Wattling bundles have several advantages... energy
dissipation, temporary stabilization to allow establishment
of other vegetation, sediment entrapment, and lower cost
than traditional engineering approaches for bank
protection. Disadvantages of wattling bundles are that they
are labor intensive, and appropriate woody species are
sometimes difficult to locate and acquire in die necessary
quantities.
(See Figure 15.)
Brush layering. Brush layering is a technique in which
cut, live woody branches (willow, hybrid poplar, etc.) are
successively placed in V-like trenches along contours on a
slope. The bottom of the trench should be sloped slightly
downward so as to catch and retain water. The cut
material may vary in length depending on the depth of
trench one can dig into the reservoir shoreline but generally
will range in length from 0.5 to 1.0 m.[1.5-3']... Branches
should be long enough to reach moist soil back in the
sloped bank. Cut branches should be laid in a crisscross
pattern, and branch ends should not protrude excessively
over the lip of the trench. Excessively protruding branches
(>15 cm) [or >3"] could dry the live plant material and kill
it.
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46
Brush layering has the same advantages as wattling
bundles except that it can be partially installed by
machinery when slopes are shallow enough in gradient to
support machinery. Graders or bulldozers can cut the
trenches with their blades so that field crews can lay the
branches of plant material in the trenches by hand. Brush
layering has the same disadvantages as wattling bundles.
(See Figure 16.)
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WATTLING INSTALLATION — SCHEMATIC MMftMl
.* 1. STAKE ON CONTOUR
START AT
BOTTOM
Of SLOPE
*• T*t*CM AMOVE (TAKES.
* MAMCTIR Of MJNOLES
X HACS KMX.ES IN TRENCH
«. ADO STAKES TMNOUOH
ANO KLOW MOLES
5. COVER flATTLIMO WITH
SOIL. TAMT FIRMLY
Figure 15. Wattling Installation, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation,"
A.T. Leiser.
Figure 16. Brush Layering, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation," A.T.
Leiser
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48
Brush mattress or matting. This procedure is also
commonly used in Europe for streambank protection... It
involves digging a slight depression on the bank and
creating a mat or mattress from woven wire or single
strands of wire and branches from sprouting trees or
shrubs. The branches may be placed in the depression with
or without woven wire. In either situation, live, freshly cut
branches are tied down by a combination of stakes and
woven wire or a network of wire or other material to hold
them in place. Branches can vary in length but are
normally cut 1.0 to 3.0 m long and 1.0 to 2.5 cm in
diameter. The branches are crisscrossed and turned
alternately so that the butts protrude slightly out of
opposite sides of the mattress. This crisscrossing and
alternate facing of branches creates a more uniform
mattress with few voids. The branches are laid down and
covered, staked, and tied with wire; then the structure is
partially covered with soil and watered. Covering with soil
and watering several times in succession will fill the air
pockets with soil and facilitate sprouting. The structure is
covered with only enough soil so that some branches are
left partially exposed on the surface.
The brush mattress has the advantage of covering a large
surface area with live sprouting material in a fairly short
period of time. It provides protection from animals digging
out the plants because of the wire and soil cover. It is also
resistant to waves and currents. Disadvantages of brush
mattresses are that: (a) they can be covered with too much
sediment if laid flat on a sandy bank, which will smother
the vegetative material and prevent sprouting, (b)
additional cuttings or transplants are difficult or impossible
to later plant through the matting, and (c) [insert] the
mattress into an excavation at the toe of the slope and
anchor it with wattling bundles at the toe. A light stone
bolster at the toe of the mattress also aids in anchoring and
preventing undercutting. (See Figure 17.)
Revetment or crib structures. Other more expensive and
elaborate structures have been recommended for shoreline
protection of streams and reservoirs and may be
appropriate where banks are almost vertical.
The "pile and fascine revetment" is a structure in which
either timber or metal piles are driven in front of an
eroding bank and spaced on about 2-m centers; they are
driven below the scour level, with tops extending above the
normal pool level of the reservoir. Fascines are bundles of
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49
brush or tree branches (similar to wattling bundles) that are
placed horizontally between the piles and the bank; then,
the brush or branches are weighted down with soil and
sandbags, before the plant material is placed, a woven
wire fabric is fastened to the back side of the piles and
secured to the top cable, interconnecting the piles.
Another type of structure that has been used on
streambanks and along waterways is a timber crib wall
where sprouting woody branches are layered between the
stretchers. Stretchers are placed lakeward [or streamward]
of the slope, with headers installed into the slope
perpendicular to the cribbing. Successive lifts of live brush
with soil placed on top of it are sandwiched between each
layer of stretchers. Gray and Leiser (1982) include
drawings and specifications for several different kinds of
crib walls. Such a structure coupled with vegetation has
great potential for controlling erosion on reservoir
shorelines, but has not been used extensively for that
purpose in the United States. (See Figures 18 and 19.)
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50
Some sooil may be thrown
bacK over mattress
/¦
— I
Stakes to be at least
70 cm in the ground
Willow or poplar brush
laid on bank and
covered with woven
wire or tied down to
stakes
Bank sloped preferably
at IV: 1-1,7 H to 2 H
rV
Bed material pushed
back over toe
f Normal
a. PROFILE VIEW
Toe excavated
for wattong
a
Stakes at about
2-m centers
Holding down
and bracmg wires
3 to 5 m
L.
Poles or wires
attacned to stakes
or mattress
covered with
woven wire
b. PLAN VIEW
SCHEMATICS OF BRUSH MATTRESS
RESERVOIR
Under some conditions,
light weights or a iignr
stone bolster may be
reouired along the roe
of the mattress
Figure 17. Brush Mattress, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation
Guidelines," Hollis Allen and C. V. Klimas.
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51
Figure 18. Pile and Fascine Construction, "Reservoir Shoreline
Revegetation Guidelines," Hollis Allen and C.V. Klimas.
Figure 19. Timber Crib Construction, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation
Guidelines," Hollis Allen and C.V. Klimas.
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52
The planting of dormant live willow posts is a practice that is being used
successfiilly in many places, including Illinois. DonRoseboom with the
Illinois State Water Survey describes the methods used in willow post planting
below in his report, Case Studies on Biotechnical Streambank Protection:
The willow post method differs from most European
bioengineering techniques (Schiechtl, 1980;...) since
individual willows are positioned vertically below the
depth of channel scour. Most biotechnical bank
stabilization techniques have utilized vegetation with a
riprap mentality. Layers of horizontally bundled woody
vegetation are entrenched in the bed and bank. This type
of earth moving and hand labor often doubles installation
costs and installation times.
Willows and most woody riparian vegetation do not
naturally extend root systems very deeply below the water
table. The posts are implanted much deeper than native
seedlings would grow. However, lateral root growth
rapidly binds adjacent posts together in the bank soil.
Lateral branch growth also interlocks adjacent posts to
slow flow velocity near the bank.
The willow post method was mentioned by Scheichtl
(1980) as a method of ravine stabilization in Germany
during the 1800's. Both the Corps of Engineers and the
Soil Conservation Service utilized large willow poles in the
1930's... In most cases the posts or poles were laid as a
layer along the sloped bank. Placed willow posts in
vertical holes ...protect the base of levees in Arizona.
Willow are cut into 10-14 ft. posts when the leaves have
fallen and the tree is dormant. At this time growth
hormones and carbohydrates are stored in the root system
and lower trunk. Dense stands of 4-6 year old willows
make the best harvesting areas. These stands are
commonly found on the stream deltas in lakes or in old
stream channel cutoffs. The willow posts are 4-6 inches in
diameter and may be stored up to 1 month if kept wet.
The eroding stream bank is shaped to 1:1 slope with the
spoil placed in a 6 inch deep layer along the top of [the]
bank. In major erosion sites, post holes are formed in the
bed and bank so that the end of the post is 2 ft. below
maximum streambed scour. The posts are placed four ft.
apart in rows up the stream bank. The posts in one row are
offset from the posts in adjacent rows.
-------
53
While the steel ram and excavator is more efficient at
depths of 6 ft. in clay soils, an hydraulic auger and
excavator unit forms deeper and longer lasting holes in
stoney or sand streambeds. Large stone layers of
streambed material cause damage to the excavator when
the steel ram is utilized. In fine sand layers, ram holes
collapse-before the post reaches the bottom of the holes. In
highly fluid sands, even auger holes fill but the post can
pushed deeper with the bucket or boom. In streams with
sand or gravel beds, the hydraulic auger will place posts 9-
11ft. deep.
In larger streams with non-cohesive sand banks, large cedar
trees are cabled to the willow posts along the toe of the
bank. The cedars not only reduce bank scour while root
systems are growing, but retain moisture during drought
periods. In larger streams as Illinois1 only designated
scenic river, the Middle Fork, large rounded boulders were
utilized as additional bank protection with the willow
posts.
• LIVING WILLOW
» ' 'STAKE
PARTIALLY BURIED
BUNDLE OF
WILLOW
BRUSH ¦
CONTOUR WATTLING
CAN BE USED TO
SLOW RUNOFF & PROVIDE
ABASE FOR VEGETATION
Living willow stakes used in combination with
willow fascine.
Figure 20. Living Willow Stakes Used in Combination with Willow Fascines
"The Role of Vegetation in Shoreline Management," Great Lakes Management.
-------
54
The Illinois State Water Survey gives tips for evaluating bank erosion in the
following table:
BANK EROSION SITE ASSESSMENT
1. Does sunlight fall directly on the eroding bank? (Willows must have sun.)
2. Is bedrock close to the surface? (Earth should be 4 feet deep - check with
tile probe.)
3. Are lens of fine sand exposed in the eroding bank?
4. Is the stream channel stable upstream of the erosion site? (If the stream cuts
behind the upper end of willow posts, the entire bank will erode.)
5. How deep is the stream along the eroding bank? (Willow posts must be 2 ft
deeper than the deepest water or the posts will be undercut below the root zone
The length of the willow posts will depend on the water depth. In sand or
cobble streams, hydraulic auger will form a deeper and more stable hole.)
6. How wide is the stream channel at the erosion sites when compared to stable
channels upstream and downstream? (If channel is wider at the erosion site
vegetation will not choke the stream channel and cause other erosion problems.)
7. Do you have a source of large willows close to the site? (Your costs are
small when the willows are close.)
8. Will the site be wet during dry summers? (Willow posts require a lot of
water while the roots are regrowing - willow posts should be only 1-2' above
ground in diy sites.)
9. Can you keep cattle away from the posts during the first summer? (Willows
produce food for regrowth from leaf photosynthesis.)
10. Have debris jams forced floodwater into the eroding bank? (You must
remove large debris jams but follow guidelines established by the American
Fisheries Society (1983.)
Other species of trees and shrubs may be used in bioengineering. Generally, it
is best to use native, water tolerant plants. The Watershed Restoration
Sourcebook, put out by the Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments, describes several methods of bioengineering techniques in the
following pages in Figures 21-24.
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
LIVE STAKES Live stakes are living woody plant
cuttings that are tamped into the
stream bank where they take root
and grow into mature shrubs that
stabilize the streambank.
Commonly used plants include
willow, alder and dogwood.
1.
An effective stabilization method once vegetation is established.
Effectiveness is significantly increased if used with other methods.
2. Acts as a strong barrier to siltation from erosion of adjacent land
3. Effectively increases vegetative cover along a stream where
existing vegetation is sparse.
4. An economical method when cuttings are locally available. Can
be done with minimum labor.
5. Most useful on streambanks of moderate slope (4:1 or less). Toe
of slope should be reinforced with fascines or rock.
Applicable only in original bank soil. Should be used more as a
preventative measure, before severe erosion problems occur.
7. Applicable on all sizes and types of streams except those with
high flow fluctuations.
2-4 cuttings per square yard, 60-76 cm (24-30 in.) long, 1.5-3.8
cm (0.5-1.3 in.) in diameter.
6.
8.
,S1WS
J ^Isll
- mmm
&
LIVE FASCINES
Live fascines are bundles of live
cuttings wired together and secured
into the streambank with live or
dead stakes. Live fascines are
used to protect banks from washout
and seepage, particularly at the
edge of a stream, and where water
levels fluctuate moderately.
1. Applicable on all types and sizes of streams where water level
fluctuation is small.
2. This method is quite durable even before the cuttings have rooted.
3. Immediate effectiveness is increased if fascines are used in
combination with other methods. For example, placing fascines
on a brush layer can reduce water velocity.
4. An economical method where materials are locally available.
5. Breaks the slope into a series of shorter slopes. In dry sections of
the slope the fascines are placed parallel to the contour. In wet
areas they are placed at an angle.
6. Fascines may be up to 9 m (30 ft.) long.
7. Little soil disruption during construction.
8. Not recommended where surface drainage occurs over the face
of the streambank.
Figure 21. Live Stakes and Live Fascines. Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
BRUSH MATTRESSES Six foot willow switches are wired 1. The mat establishes a complete cover for the bank. Entire
together to form a mat which is then layer must be slightly covered with soil or fill,
secured to the bank by stakes, 2. Captures sediment and rebuilds bank. Plants provide long
fascines, poles or rock fill. The toe term durability and erosion control,
of the slope is reinforced with a 3. Establishes dense riparian growth. Allows for invasion of
bnishlayer anchored by a live surrounding riparian vegetation.
fascine or rip-rap. Mattress should 4. An economical technique which provides protection soon
lie perpendicular to the water. after it is established.
5. Applicable on banks with a uniform gradient not exceeding
2:1. The toe of the slope is reinforced with a brushlayer
anchored by a live fascine.
6. Mattress should lie perpendicular to the water.
7. Sits should have moderate water level fluctuations.
BRANCH PACKINGS
Branch packings are alternating
layers of live branches and soil used
to fill a hole or washed out area in a
streambank. Brandies are used
both underwater and above. The
bnuiches above the water will root
to provide permanent protection,
while those below the water line
provide initial stability. Can be
packed using fascines to increase
effectiveness. Stakes are used for
stability and should be 1.5-3.7 m
long.
1. This technique provides an immediate barrier, redirecting
water away from the washed out area. One of the most
effective methods for revegetating holes scoured in a
streambank. Produces immediate habitat cover.
2. Can be packed using fascines to increase effectiveness.
3. Cuttings are often available locally, thus an economical
method.
4. Slope toe may be secured with rock fill. Soil and gravel
mixed and used in between brush layers as fill material.
5. Stakes are used for stability and should be 1.8-2.5 m
(6-8 ft) long.
6. A scoured hole intended for this installation should not be
more than 3.7 m (12 ft) long, 1.5 m (5 ft) wide, or 1.2 m
(4 ft) deep.
7. A particularly useful method for banks that have had
washouts, even where the water is fast and deep.
Fill Soil
1-2.5" m
mwm
hi m=i1I1I|I5
Mimr
Figure 22. Brush Mattress and Branch Packing, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
LIVE CRIBWALL
DESCRIPTION
The live cribwall is a rectangular
framework of logs, rock and woody
cuttings. It is used lo protect an
eroding streambank, especially at
outside banks of main channels
where strong currents are present
and locations where an eroding
bank may eventually form a split
channel.
NOTES
1. The log framework provides immediate protection from
erosion where the plants provide long term durability.
2. Very effective in controlling bank erosion on all types of
streams, including those with rapid flow. Can promote
sihation and can retain large amounts of bedload
material.
3. The growing plants will eventually take over for the
rotting logs.
4. An economical technique, when local materials and
unskilled labor are used.
3. Fill is added to regrade very steep slopes.
6. Not applicable where bed is severely eroded as under-
cutting occur. Not suitable for rocky terrain or for use in
narrow reaches with high banks on both sides.
7. The walk is constructed of logs stripped of their bark or
untreated timber, at least IS cm 6 in) in diameter.
8. Height of cribbing should be 50%-70% of the height of
the bank.
Fill Soil
VEGETATED GEOGRID
Geotextile material is used to
support fill sections of a streambank.
Similar to brash layering. The
material used in between the
layers of live branches and along the
face of the slope.
1. Immediately reinforces the newly constructed bank.
Reinforces the fill earth at steep angles.
2. Produces rapid growth for habitat improvement.
3.100% biodegradable. Lasts 5-10 years, so natural
looking bank will be achieved in a short time.
4. Geo grid material costs between SJ-S13 per square yd.
5. Fill soil is used in between the brash and is wrapped by
geotextile. Must be well compacted.
6. The structure is built during low flow, starting at the
waters edge. The fust (two) layers) is (are) built with
cobble.
Figure 23. Live Cribwalls and Vegetated Geogrid, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
JOINT PLANTINGS Willow cuttings or seedlings are placed in 1. Enhances the strength and appearance of the hard
the joints of rip-rap or gabions. construction structure.
2. The plantings improve the function of the rip-rap or
gabion by reducing water speed near the bank.
3. Mitigates the presence of the hard construction
structure by incorporating habitat improving plants.
4. May increase the initial costs of the construction, but
- will strengthen the structure and reduce maintenance
costs in the future.
5. 2-6 cuttings per square yard depending on velocity of
flow.
Figure 24. Joint Planting, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
59
Many bioengineering techniques are limited to stable areas with little
fluctuation of water levels, such as shorelines or lake fronts. In these areas,
fiber rolls and schwimmkampen islands may be constructed to control erosion
from waves and provide fish spawning habitat. These techniques are described
and shown in the following by Hollis Allen in the report, Reservoir Shoreline
Revegetation Guidelines:
Plant Rolls. Plant rolls are adaptions of "reed rolls"...
which have been used extensively in Europe for
streambank erosion control. Plant rolls are cylinders of
plant clumps in soil that are wrapped by burlap, secured by
hog rings or wire, and placed in a trench....(Sources have)
described the use of these in marsh establishment for
erosion control of a dredged material dike in a moderate
wave-energy environment. Such a technique is considered
to be applicable to.... reservoir shoreline stabilization
because plant rolls can withstand considerable wave action
(at least 0.3-0.6-m-high waves). Plant rolls can be
pregrown in the greenhouse or lathehouse to develop root
systems, installed in water with a jet pump or shovel, and
treated with fertilizer without excessive leaching of the
fertilizer.
Plant rolls are constructed onsite as follows:
1. A length of burlap (about 1 m wide by 4 m long) is laid
on the ground.
2. Sand or soil is placed on the strip of burlap, and 6-7
clumps of plants are spaced at 0.5-m intervals on the
burlap.
3. About 28 g of 18-6-12 slow-release fertilizer is applied
to each plant clump by hand.
4. The sides of the burlap are brought together around the
plants and fastened with hog rings creating a 3-m-long roll
of plants and soil.
5. The plant rolls are positioned at the toe of the bank or
upon any existing shallow benches lake ward of the toe and
are oriented parallel to the bank.
6. The rolls are buried in the reservoir substrate by a jet
pump or by shovel.
-------
/
/
/
/
/
I
/
/
/
1
^ ANCHOR
Figure 25. Artificial Floating Islands, Bestmann-Green
Systems, Inc. Artificial floating islands follow shoreline
for erosion control and habitat development.
/,«r <¦< i
\ * ' •» ¦ * .
^ v\i- . J' ~Cr- ¦.
1 ^ 11
vV^V* Tiv
»tV*\ j
tWMm
J -• »-TTr" -
Figure 26. Fiber Rolls, Bestmann-Green Systems, Inc. Fiber rolls stabilize
banks and permit establishment of wetland vegetation. The coconut fiber
accumulates sediment and biodegrades as plant roots develop and become a
stabilizing system.
-------
61
F. HABITAT RESTORATION
Streambank restoration techniques are important not only for directing flow
away from eroding banks, but also for providing pool and riffle areas, which
create habitat for fish and benthic macroinvertebrates. In addition to creating
pool and riffle areas, habitat can be created by constructing artificial cover.
This includes shelves or lunker units. Artificial cover can be created by using a
combination of lumber and riprap or by using natural materials such as live
trees. Tree revetments, discussed earlier in Section VI-B,6 provide fish habitat
in addition to adding streambank stability. Wing deflectors, weirs, dams, and
drop structures help (also discussed in Section VI-C) create deeper pool of
water to attract larger species. Fish habitat can be created inexpensively using
materials that are already present, or near by, such as fallen logs, root wads and
boulders.
Bank covers are easy to construct and can be built out of simple materials such
as logs, old timber and rocks. The objective for building these structures is to
provide a shelter for fish. At the same time, they help protect banks. Brush and
debris caught in the shelter also attract insects and other organisms which
provide food for fish. When used in combination with vegetating techniques,
they help provide bank stability which enables plant growth.
Types of bank covers include bank crib with cover log, log and bank shelters,
and lunker structures. Figures 27 and 28 show some examples of bank covers.
BANK COVER Thasa structure va mstaftad id 1. Bank ewtn should ba piaoad at 9» ouftida ol tends or along
craata an unoarcut bank aftact svaignt raachas m eoryuncacm wift Oaftacers to ansura aoaquata
which provioas eovar tor fish. Bank watardapn.
covars also sarva to stabiliza 2. Tha bank bahind atamang should ba armorad with rock,
arodtng banks. 3. Tha CMamang should ba oovarad with a layar or rocks, toiwwad by
soil and sod.
4. Normal sftaam tow should ba roughly avan with Via bottom ot tha
platform.
5. Not raoommandad tor svaams subjact to savara flooding, thus, usa
in urban araas Is kmnsd.
Norma.1 Low
y-*- v. ,r„,
Figure 27. Bank Cover. Watershed Restoration Sourcebook, Anacostia
Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
-------
v- ;•¦;V/'*:':' BANK 'CRIB' WITH/CbvER /LOG .y'y/.V•::¦:'- ¦"•• ~-
SIDE VIEW
Figure 28. Bank Crib with Cover Log, adapted by LeAnne Johnson from
Stream Habitat Improvement Handbook, Monte Seehorn, U.S.D. A. Forest
Service.
-------
63
A lunker structure is a type of bank cover originally designed to attract
salmonid fishes, or trout. Construction of a lunker unit is described in the
publication, Unit Construction of Trout Habitat Improvement Structures for
Use in Coulee Streams: by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources:
The LUNKERS unit described here is the culmination of
experimentation with different structure designs. This structure is
designed to survive and to function well in local coulee streams.
[Editor's note: these are medium gradient streams that are cold
water.]
Instead of whole logs, brace wire, and steel fence posts, we
now use oak planks, oak blocks, and reinforcing rods. Oak
blocks, made from short sections of tree trunks, are used as
spacers. Oak planks are nailed to the tops and bottoms of
the blocks, forming stringers which tie into the stream bank
at right angles. Oak planks are then nailed to the top and
bottom of the stringer boards. These boards parallel the
stream bank. The whole structure forms a crib, which can
be constructed on shore and moved by a crawler-loader to
the installation site in the stream. The structure is
anchored by driving lengths of reinforcing rod through
predrilled holes in the structures and then into the
streambed (See Figures 29 and 30.)
tta tectum: iiRBt no? tutoil
txKracivs too
Figure 29., Sideview of lunker structure. Construction of
Trout Habitat Improvement Structures For Use In
Coulee Streams, Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources.
-------
OAK BLOCKS t-S IKCHES IK BXAKmX
DUUIfi 11TH 5/S-IHCK AMU BIT
Top Viev, La Crosse LUNXERS unit.
Front Vieu, La Crosse LUNKER.S ur.ic. Structures are built using oak
planks 2 inches thick by 8-12 inches wide. Structures are nailed together
with 20D cozraon spikes.
Figure 30. Top and Front View, LaCrosse LUNKERS Unit, "Unit Construction
of Trout Habitat Improvement Structures for Wisconsin Coulee Streams,"
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
-------
The Anacostia Watershed Society provides many examples of habitat
improvement techniques in their Watershed Restoration Sourcebook. Many
are as simple as using tree revetments (discussed earlier in this handbook)
which also help control erosion, or as inexpensive as using boulders from the
local area.
AQUATIC HABITAT IMPROVEMENT TECHNIQUES
METHOD
BRUSH BUNDLE
DESCRIPTION
Brush is placed along a stream
bank to provide overhead cover for
fish and reduce erosion.
NOTES
1. Three or more trees, preferably fresh cut cedar trees
should be wired together to form the bundle.
2. Trees should be drilled and attached by cable to a
deadman (large concrete slab) on the bank.
3. Trunks are to be placed facing upstream.
4. The brush bundle should be secured by placing large
rocks on the downstream branches.
5. Should not be used in extremely flashy streams u
frequent high flows may strip branches.
6. Most effective on small streams.
,f. TRtt
r->/!)¦*« STEEl.
URGE
-------
Figure 32. Log and Brush Shelter, adapted by LeAnne Johnson from Stream
Habitat Improvement Handbook, Monte Seehorn, U.S.D.A. Forest Service.
-------
METHOD
BOULDER CLUSTER
DESCRIPTION
Several large boulders are placed
in a riffle to create structural
complexity .including eddies and
small pools, used as rearing areas
by salmonoids and other fish.
Boulders may also be placed
singly in a random fashion. This
method requires minimal
maintenance.
NOTES
1. Clusters are comprised of 3-5 boulders.
2. The clusters should be triangular and placed in the
downstream half of a long riffle or glide.
3. Boulders should not be placed in pools.
4. Clusters placed in the same stream section should be
at least 1/3 of the stream width apart.
J. Boulden are most effective in wide, shallow, high
velocity streams with gravel or nibble bottoms.
6. Clusters can be placed in deeper areas to cause
undercutting and increase cover.
7. Height of boulders is determined by the desired habitat
effects.
8. Boulders must be heavy enough to resist movement by
rapid streamilowa.
Figure 33. Boulder Cluster, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
ROCK, GABION
LOG-FRAME
DEFLECTORS
Deflectors are used to narrow and
deepen streams, encourage
meandering, form pools, increase
cover and protect eroding banks.
Deflectors are triangular in shape
and may be constructed from rock,
gabion or logs. Depending on
stream conditions, these structures
can be used singly or in series. At
least three deflecton should be
constructed in a series for best
results.
1. Deflectors should not be installed in unstable flood-
plains or braided channels and are best suited for low
gradient, meandering streams.
2. The structure should be constructed in the lower half
of long riffle sections to prevent backwatermg
upstream.
3. The deflectors should form an angle not greater than
30 to 4} degrees with the streambank conforming
with the natural meander of the stream. The greater
the velocity of the water, the smaller the angle of
deflection.
4. The top level of the deflector should be above the
mean low water level, yet low enough to allow
passage of debris over it during high flows.
3. Log frame deflecton consist of a triangular log frame
filled with tightly placed rock. The logs should be
anchored at least 1.8 m (6 ft) into the bank and
secured to the stream botUAn using 1-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
rods.
6. The point of connection to the river bank should be
aimored with rip-rap to prevent washout
7. The bank opposite the deflector may also need rip-rap
to protect it from erosion.
8. Gabion deflecton should be imbedded into the stream
bottom at least one-half of their total height.
9. Willow and other riparian species may be inserted
into the bed to give a more natural appearance.
Gabion Deflector
Rock Deflector
Figure 34. Rock, Gabion, or Log Frame Deflectors, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Amcostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
CHANNEL
CONSTRICTORS
(Wing Deflectors)
Channel constrictors are essentially
two deflectors on opposite sides of
the stream. They are designed to
narrow and deepen the channel
thereby creating pools to improve
fish rearing habitat. Backwater,
resulting from the construction, will
cause small gravel deposits to form
upstream, improving spawning
habitat for fish. Constrictors may
be constructed of rock, gabions or
logs.
1. Design criteria are very similar to those used for
2. Constrictors should reduce stream width by about
25%.
3. At the mid-point of the structure, the constrictor
should be roughly the height of expected high flow.
4. If constrictors are installed in series, they should be at
least 5 stream widths from each other.
3. The constrictors should be well secured into the
streambank and bottom.
6. Banks downstream of the structure should be protected
against possible erosion.
7. Opposing deflectors should not constrict the stream
more than half the channel width and should only be
installed in straight sections.
Figure 35. Channel Constrictors. Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacoctia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
V-NOTCH GABION
OR LOG WEDGE
These structures are designed to
create and maintain large in-stream
pools. They will also cause small
gravel deposits to form which are
used by fish for spawning purposes.
V-notch Gabion
1. Gabion and log wedges should be installed in long riffle
sections which lack pools and spawning areas.
2. The " V" of the gabion structures should point downstream.
Each side of the "V" should form an angle of 30-45
degrees with the stream bank.
3. At least one-half of the gabion height should be buried in
the streamed.
4. Log wedges should be constructed of logs at least 30 cm
(1 ft) in diameter.
5. The "V'ofthe wedge should point upstream. Each side
should form an angle of 45-60 degrees with the
streambank.
6. Hardware cloth should be stapled to the upstream edge of
the log wedge, extended a distance equal to the stream
width and buried at least 30 cm (1 ft).
7. Drift pins are necessary to secure the logs to the stream
bottom.
8. The center ofthe gabion or log wedges should be 15 cm
(6 in.) lower than the bank ends.
9. Unstable streambank* around the wedges must be armored
to prevent erosion.
antWW
fo bonk.
Log Wtdgc
Figure 36 V-Notch Gabion or Log Wedge, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacoflia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
AQUATIC HABITAT IMPROVEMENT TECHNIQUES
METHOD
K-DAMS
DESCRIPTION
K-dams, a type of low stage check
dam, create plunge pools
downstream of the structure, which
are used for shelter and spawning
by fish. K-dams consist of a dam
log supported by two brace logs
which give the structure a letter K
shape. Logs, called mudsills, are
placed parallel to streamflow,
underneath the dam log to provide
a base for the construction,.
NOTES
1. K-dams function best in streams of low flow volume,
channel widths and low stream gradients.
2. The ends of the dam log must be placed 2 m (6.5 ft.)
or more into the stream bank.
3. The mudsills should be buried at least one-half of their
diameter.
4. Hardware mesh should be attached to the upstream
side of the dam log and mudsills and extended between
1-1.3 m into the bank. The mesh is covered by a layer
of rocks and gravel.
5. K-dams are placed low in the channel, usually less
than 1/4 bankfull stage.
6. Avoid placing dams downstream of bends.
7. More costly to build, but stronger than log-drop
structure.
Figure 37, K-Dams, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
METHOD
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
LOG DROP
STRUCTURES
(Check Dams)
Log drop structures create scour
pools downstream of the structure
by directing water down into the
stream bottom. The scour pools
provide cover for fish. Gravel will
deposit upstream of the log drop
and also downstream of the scour
pool. These deposits are often
used as spawning areas.
1. If possible, sycamore or other rot resistant log, minimum
30 cm (1 ft) in diameter, should be used for construction.
2. The logs should be anchored at least 0.4 x width into the
streambank. If the width is less than 2.4 m (8 ft), each
log should be anchored 1-1.5 m (3.3-3 ft) into the bank.
3. The ends should be backfilled with rock and excavated
material. The backfill must be armored with
appropriately sized rock to prevent erosion.
4. Hardware cloth should be attached to the upstream part
of the log and extended upstream a minimum of 10 feet
The cloth should be buried at least 30 cm (1 ft) into the
streambed.
5. A notch should be cut into the top center of the log to
concentrate low flows.
6. Log drop structures placed in series in the same stream
reach should be constructed such that the top of the down-
stream log is placed at the same level or lower than the
bottom of the upstream log. .
7. Drop structures are to be located in non-riffle areas where
bank height is at least 45 cm in height
8. Care must be taken to avoid flooding of upstream riffles
by backwater.
9. Height of the drop and width of the log must not create a
barrier to fish migration.
riotw
Figure 38. Log Drop Structures, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Arucostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
-------
73
VIII. CONCLUSION
?leltref!,bankuStabllizati0n 311(1 erosion control methods described in this
handbook have been proven to be successful when properly constmctedand
maintained. The method(s) used will depend unon LL ^
and the severity of the erosion proWem P P ^ 5011 C0ndltl0ns
The cost of streambank stabilization methods will varv ereatlv rnni»nti« i
bank annoring, or the use of riprap may be less expSSe t£e
can be found locally^ On the other hand, a well constructed spur dike may
require less rock, and therefore be less expensive than riprap Soil
bioengineenng techniques may be quite expensive. The least expensive
Sders" 0nCS mV°1Ve ^l0Cd materials' s^h as logs or
Besides financial concerns, the type of stream and land surrounding it will
influence what types ofrestoration techniques that are used. For example iackc
and posts will be ineffective m high velocity streams because they are Limed
to allow large sediment loads to be deposited, thus helping to stabilize
streambanks. Understandably, streambanks that have been denuded of
vegetation will require replanting. The type of plants used will depend uDon
soil type, geology, weather conditions of the area, and streambank slope In
areas where vegetation must be established quickly, soil bioeneineerimr'
techniques may be die desired choice.
A good stream restoration practice for one area may not be good for another
For instance, trees in the stream may create severe obstructions in some areas
but in others they may be placed there purposely to create fish and wildlife '
habitat. Often, stream restoration techniques serve the double purpose of
stabilizing streambanks and creating habitat. In order to find the best solution
that will be the least costly in the long run, landowners should seek professional
advice about what stream restoration techniques to use.
Landowners seeking to correct erosion problems should contact the Tennessee
Department of Environment and Conservation, Division of Water Pollution
Control, Natural Resources Section to determine if a permit is required for the
activity they plan to undertake. Advice and technical assistance is available
from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Stabilization and
Conservation Service (ASCS), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil
Conservation Service (SCS). The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved
vegetative filter strips as an acceptable practice in the Conservation Reserve
Program (CRP). Information on cost-sharing can be obtained from local
U.S.D.A. offices as well as the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA),
Agricultural Resources Division. The Army Corps of Engineers may also
provide technical assistance on activities involving alteration of stream channels
or banks. A contact list of resource agencies is included in this handbook in the
appendix.
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74
With a little effort and within a short time, landowners can successfully
implement streambank stabilization and riparian restoration techniques. Nature,
given a little assistance, can begin to repair the damage caused by manmade and
natural events. This leads to a reduction in tons of soil lost from eroded fields
and streambanks, increased wildlife habitat, and better understanding of the
importance of aquatic resources by landowners.
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APPENDIX
-------
IX. LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES
TABLES:
1. Use of InstreamStmctures in Low to High Gradient Streams Riparian
Forest Buffers. U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
FIGURES:
U.S.Departm.n.of
2 Streambank Erosion and Deposition. Streambank Stabilization and
Resomces"1 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Natural
3. Stream Obstruction Removal Criteria, "Stream Obstruction Removal
Guidelines", American Fisheries Society and the Wildlife Society.
4. Riprap Construction, Controlling Streambank Erosion April 1991 Draft
Georgia Soil and Water Commission. ' P Urm-
5. Gabion Construction, Controlling Streambank Erosion ADril 1991 TVaft
Georgia Soil and Water Commission. ' ^
6. Hard Points Diagram," Streambank Erosion...Gaining A Greater
Understanding", Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
7. Jacks and Posts Diagram, "Streambank Erosion...Gaining A Greater
Understanding", Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
8. How To Place Tree Revetments, "Tree Revetments for Streambank
Stabilization", Missouri Department of Conservation.
9. Rock Dam Construction. The Restoration of Rivers and Strpams-ThenHgc
and Experience. James Gore.
10. Log Dam Construction, The Restoration of Rivers and Streamc-TW^c.
and Experience. James Gore.
11. Diagram of Instream Structures Within Stream Channel. The Restnrarinn nf
Rivers and Streams-Theories and Experience. James Gore. " ~~~
12 Streambank Zones, "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion Control Along the
Rank* of the Missouri River from Garrison Dam Downstream to Bismarck,
S
-------
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES (CONT.)
13. Sprigging, "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion Control Along the Banks of
the Missouri River from Garrison Dam Downstream to Bismarck, South
Dakota", L.D. Logan, U.S.D.A. Forest Service.
14. Sodding, "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion Control Along the Banks of
the Missouri River from Garrison Dam Downstream to Bismarck, South
Dakota", L.D. Logan, U.S.D.A. Forest Service.
15. Wattling Installation, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation", A.T. Leiser.
16. Brush Layering, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation", A.T. Leiser.
17. Brush Mattress, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation Guidelines," Hollis
Allen and C. V. Klimas.
18. Pile and Fascine Construction, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation
Guidelines," Hollis Allen and C. V. Klimas.
19. Timber Crib Construction, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation Guidelines,"
Hollis Allen and C. V. Klimas.
20. Living Willow Stakes Used In Combination with Willow Fascines, "The
Role of Vegetation in Shoreline Management", Great Lakes Management.
21. Live Stakes and Live Fascines, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments.
22. Brush Mattress and Branch Packing, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments.
23. Live Cribwalls and Vegetated Geogrid, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments.
24. Joint Planting, Watershed Restoration Sourcebook, Anacostia Restoration
Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
25. Schwimmkampen Islands, Lothar Bestmann, Bestmann Ingenieurbiologie.
26. Fiber Rolls, Lothar Bestmann, Bestmann Ingenieurbiologie.
27. Bank Cover, Watershed Restoration Sourceoook, Anacostia Restoration
Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
-------
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES (CONT.)
28. Side View of Lunker Unit, "Unit Construction of Trout Habitat
Improvement Structures for Wisconsin Coulee Streams", Minnesota Department
of Natural Resources.
29. Top and Front View, LaCrosse LUNKERS Unit, "Unit Construction of
Trout Habitat Improvement Structures for Wisconsin Coulee Streams",
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
30. Bank Crib with Cover Log, adapted by LeAnne Johnson from Stream
Habitat Improvement Handbook, Monte Seehorn, U.S.D.A. Forest Service.
31. Log and Brush Shelter, adapted by LeAnne Johnson from Stream Habitat
Improvement Handbook, Monte Seehorn, U.S.D.A. Forest Service.
32. Brush Bundle, Watershed Restoration Handbook, Anacostia Restoration
Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
33. Boulder Cluster, Watershed Restoration Handbook, Anacostia Restoration
Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
34. Rock, Gabion, or Log-Frame Deflectors, Watershed Restoration Handbook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments
35. Channel Constrictors, Watershed Restoration Handbook, Anacostia
Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
36. V-Notch Gabion or Log Wedge, Watershed Restoration Handbook,
Anacostia Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments.
37. K-Dams, Watershed Restoration Handbook, Anacostia Restoration Society,
Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
38. Log Drop Structures, Watershed Restoration Handbook, Anacostia
Restoration Society, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
-------
RIPARIAN RESTORATION
& STREAMSIDE EROSION CONTROL
SELECTED REFERENCES
American Fisheries Society and the Wildlife Society, 1983, "Stream
Obstruction Removal Guidelines".
Allen, Hollis H., 1986 "Streambank Protection With Planted Vegetation", U.S.
Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39180.
Allen, H.H, and C.V. Klimas, 1986, "Reservoir Shoreline Revegetation
Guidelines", Technical Report E-86-13. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39180. Phone (601) 634-3845.
Bestmann, Lothar, 1989, Unpublished notes from a notebook describing
bioengineering methods used in Germany, Bestmann Ingenieurbiologie,
Pinneberg, Germany.
Cairns, John Jr., 1988, Rehabilitation of Damaged Ecosystems CRC Press,
Inc. Boca Raton, Florida, p.24.
Clemens, R.H., (no date), "The Role of Vegetation in Shoreline Management",
Great Lakes Basin Commission.
Finley, Mack T., James A. Gore, and Steven W. Hamilton, 1992, "Proposed
Best Management Practices For Improving Water Quality In the West Sandy
Watershed", Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, Tennessee. Phone (615)
648-7781.
Forest Conservation Manual, 1991, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Annapolis,
Maryland.
Gore, James A., 1985, The Restoration of Rivers and Streams-Theories and
Experience.. Butterworth Publishers, Boston, Massachusetts.
Gore, J.A., and A.M. Milner, 1990, Island biogeographical theory: Can It Be
Used To Predict Lotic Recovery Rates? Environment Management. 14: 737-
753.
Gough, Steve, 1991, "Tree Revetments For Streambank Stabilization",
Missouri Department of Conservation, Fisheries Division, Jefferson City,
Missouri, 65102. Phone (314) 962-3200.
Gray, D.H. and A.T. Leiser, 1982, Biotechnical Slope Protection and Erosion
Control. Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., New York, NY.
-------
SELECTED REFERENCES CONT.
Guide To Forestry Best Management Practices, 1993, Tennessee Department
of Agriculture, Division of Forestry, Nashville, Tennessee.
Leiser, A.T., 1983, "Reservoir Shoreline Re vegetation," paperRented at U.S.
Army Corps of Engineer training course, Wetlands Deve op
Restoration. Duck, N.C.
Lester, J.E., etal, 1986, "Lake Shore Revegetation Studies atLakeTexomaon
the Red River, Texas-Oklahoma", Technical Report E-8 -1. . . y
Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississ pp .
Logan, L.D., 1979, "Guidelines for Streambank Erosion Control Atoji® the
Banks of the Missouri River from Gamson Dam Downstream
North Dakota", U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Mate ana
Private Forestry, Missoula, Montana.
Mikalson, Ted S„ 1993 (Draft), Controlling Streambank Erosion^
Environmental Protection Division, Atlanta GA. 30334. Phone ( )
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of T^'Xip ^
"Streambank Erosion...Gaining A Greater Understanding. MN-DNR, 500
Lafayette Rd., St. Paul, MN 55155-4031.
Roseboom, Donald, 1993, "Case Studies On Biotechnical Streambank
Protection", Illinois State Water Survey, P.O. Box 697, Peoria, Illinois, 61652.
Phone (309) 693-5117.
Schiechtl, H., 1980, Bioeneineerinp For Land Reclamation and Conservation.
The University of Alberta Press, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Schnelle, Michael A., James R. Feucht, James E. Kleft, 1989, Root Systems
of Trees - Facts and Fallacies, Arboriculture: Vol. 15, No. 9.
Streambank Stabilization and Management Guide, 1986, Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, Department of Environmental Resources, Bureau of Land
Management and Water Conservation, Harnsburg Pennsylvania, 17105. Phone
(717) 787-5267.
Stream Habitat Improvement Handbook, 1992, U.S.D.A. Forest Service,
Southern Region, 1720 Peachtree Rd., N.W., Atlanta, Georgia, 30367-9102.
Turner, William, 1993, "Understanding Streams", Missouri Department of
Conservation, Sedalia, Missouri, 65301. Phone (816) 530-5500.
-------
SELECTED REFERENCES CONT.
Vetrano, David M., 1988, "Unit Construction of Trout Habitat Improvement
Structures for Wisconsin Coulee Streams", Department of Natural Resources,
Bureau of Fisheries Management, Madison, Wisconsin.
Watershed Restoration Sourcebook, Anacostia Restoration Team, Department
of Environmental Programs, Metropolitan Washington Council of
Governments,, 1992. Collected papers presented at the conference, "Restoring
Our Home River: Water Quality and Habitat In The Anacostia", held
November 6 and 7, 1991 in College Park, Maryland. Metropolitan Information
Center, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, 777 North Capitol
St. NE, Suite 200, Washington, DC, 20002-4201. Phone (202) 962-3200.
Wingate, P.J., et al, 1979, "Guidelines for Mountain Stream Relocations in
North Carolina", North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Division of
Inland Fisheries, Raleigh, North Carolina., 27611. Phone (919) 733-3633.
-------
On the following pages are copies of regulations for aquatic alteration activities
such as gravel dredging, constructing road crossings, and installing utility lines.
-------
RULES
OF
TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD
DIVISION OF WATER POLLUTION CONTROL
CHAPTER 1200-4-7
AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1200—4—7—.01 Definition*
1200-4-7—.02 through 1200—4—7—>04 Reserved
1200 4 7—.05 Geneni Permit for Launching Raapt
1200 4 7—.06 General Permit for Alteration of Wet Weather
1200 4 7—.07 General Permit for Minor Road Crossings
1200—4—7—JOt General Permit for Utility line Crouinp
1200—4—7—.09 General Permit for Bank Stabilization
1200 4 7—.10 General Permit for Sand and Gravel Dndgiat
1200—4—7—J1 General Permit for Debris Removal
Conveyance
1200—4—7—.01 DEFINITIONS. As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:
0) "In the dry" means in such a maimer that no equipment or dredged material is in contact with flowing
water and that the soil-water interface is not touched by equipment and that infiltration to the dredging
site is not pumped to the stream;
(2) Berm means an area of natural undisturbed material from the site that is left between the dredging area
and the stream;
(3) Channelization means alterations of stream channels including but not limited to straightening, widening
or enlarging stream channels;
(4) Dredging and "sand and gravel dredging" mean the removal of sand, gravel and similar deposits from a
stream bed by any means;
(5) Individual permit means a permit issued by the Division of Water Pollution Control to a person to conduct
specified activities at a specified location for a specific time period; and
(6) Stream means waters of the State on the surface of the ground including but not limited to creeks, rivers,
and tributaries.
Authority: 7TCL4. §§5P—3—105 and 69—3—101 through 69—3—121. Administrative History; Original rule filed February
26. 1987; effective April 12, 1987. Amendment filed October 8, 1991; effective November 22, 1991.
1200—4—7—.02 through 1200—4—7—.04 RESERVED.
1200—4—7 -.05 GENERAL PERMIT FOR LAUNCHING RAMPS.
(1) Construction of launching ramps is permitted by this rule provided the activity is done in accordance with
the terms and conditions of this rule and provided:
(a) an individual permit is sot required;
(b) no portion of the activity is located in wetlands;
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.002
-------
AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.05, continued)
(c) no portion of the activity is located in a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System
or a State Scenic River, or streams within the property boundaries of public lands administered by
the National Park Service, the National Forest Service, the Tennessee Department of Environment and
Conservation and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency;
(d) no portion of the activity is located in any waterway which is identified by the Department as having
contaminated sediments;
(e) the activity will not permanently disrupt the movement of aquatic life; and
(0 no portion of the activity is located in a known habitat of State or Federally listed treatened or en-
dangered species.
(2) This general permit will expire August 1, 1996.
(3) Tkrms and Conditions.
(a) Persons proposing to construct a launching ramp in waters of State shall notify the Department by
submission of an application which includes the following minimum information:
1. a map showing the exact location of the proposed construction site; and
2. a single copy of construction plans which includes specifications for proposed stream channel
alterations and pollution control methods or structures.
(b) Construction shall not commence until the Commissioner issues written notification that the proposal
may proceed in accordance with the terms of this rule or issues an individual permit.
(c) The width of the proposed ramp shall not exceed 20 feet.
(d) The ramp shall be constructed in the dry to the maximum extent practicable during winter drawdown
periods of lakes/reservoirs or during low flow periods of free flowing streams. If wet construction
is necessary, cofferdams shall be utilized.
(e) Tne excavation and fill activities associated with the ramp construction shall be kept to a minimum
and all excess material shall be hauled to an upland site and properly stabilized to prevent reentry to
the waterway.
CO Clearing, grubbing and other disturbance to riparian vegetation shall be limited to the minimum
necessary' for slope construction and equipment operations. Unnecessary vegetation removal is pro-
hibited. All disturbed areas shall be properly stabilized as soon as possible.
(g) The use of the ramp must not interfere with the public's right to free navigation on all navigable waters
of the United Statu.
(h) Ramps constructed on fill shall have the side slopes stabilized with riprap.
(i) Material may not be placed in such location or manner so as to impair surface water flow into or
out of any wetland ares.
(j) Tne material to be discharged shall be free of contaminants, including toxic pollutants, hazardous
substances, waste metal, construction debris, organic material, etc.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0021
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION
CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.05, continued)
(k) Erosion and sedimentation control measurers to protect water quality must be maintained throughout
the construction period and repaired, if necessary, after rainfall. Straw or hay bales and/or silt fence
must be installed along the base of all fills and cuts, on the downhill side of stock piled soil, and along
stream banks in cleared areas to prevent erosion into streams. They must be installed parallel to the
stream channel, entrenched and staked, and extend the width of the area to be cleared. The bales and/or
silt fence may be removed at the beginning of the work day, but must be replaced at the end of the
work day.
(1) Upon achievement of final grade; all disturbed areas must be stabilized and re-vegetated within 30
days by sodding or seeding and mulching. Seed to be utilized shall include a combination of annual
grains and grasses, legumes, and perennial grasses. Lime and fertilizer shall be applied as needed to
achieve a vegetative cover.
Authority: T.CA. $$69—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 et seq. Administrative History: Original rule filed October 8,1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
1200—4-7—06 GENERAL PERMIT FOR THE ALTERATION OF WET WEATHER CONVEYANCES.
Wet weather conveyances are defined in rule 1200—4—3—.04 of the Rules of Ibnnessee Department of Environment
and Conservation. Rule 1200—4—3—.02(7) requires that waters designated as wet weather conveyances shall be protec-
tive of wildlife and humans that may come in contact with them and maintain standards applicable to all downstream
waters. No other use classification or criteria apply to these waters. Activities which result in the alteration of wet weather
conveyances are permitted by this rule provided the activity does not result in the discharge of waste or other substances
which may be harmful to humans or wildlife, and that erosion and sedimentation and other pollution control mechanisms
are emoloved to maintain the Quality of downstream waters. This general permit will expire August 1, 1996.
Authority: T.CA. §§69—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 et seq. Administrative History: Original rule filed October 8, 1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
1200—4—7—.07 GENERAL PERMIT FOR MINOR ROAD CROSSINGS.
(1) Construction of minor road crossings is permitted by this rule provided the activtity is done in accordance
with the terms and conditions of this rule and provided:
(a) an individual permit is not required;
(b) no portion of the activity is located in wetlands;
(c) no portion of the activity is located in a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System
or a State Scenic River, or streams within the property boundaries of public lands administered by
the National Park Service; the National Forest Service, the Tbnnessee Department of Environment and
Conservation and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
(d) no portion of the activity is located in any waterway which has been identified by the Department
as having contaminated sediments;
(e) no portion of the activity is located in a known habitat of State or Federally listed treatened or en-
dangered species.
(2) This general permit will expire August 1, 1996.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0022
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION
CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.07, continued)
(3) Terms and Conditions.
(*) Persons proposing to construct a minor road crossing in waters of State shall notify the Department
by submission of an application which includes the following minimum information:
1. a map showing the exact location of the proposed construction site; tod
2. a single copy of construction plans which includes specifications for proposed stream channel
alterations and pollution control methods or structures.
(b) Stream alteration activities shall not commence until the Commissioner issues written notification that
the proposal may proceed in accordance with the terms of this Rule or issues an individual permit.
(c) The crossing shall be culverted, bridged or otherwise designed to prevent the impairment of flow.
(d) The crossing shall be designed and constructed so as not to disrupt the movement of aquatic life.
(e) The width of the fill associated with the crossing shall be limited to the minimum necessary for the
actual crossing.
(0 Stream alteration activities shall be limited to a 50 linear foot transition within the stream channel
on either side of the road crossing and shall be limited to bank stabilization activities.
(g) Temporary erosion control measures must be in place before earthmoving operations begin, maintain-
ed throughout the construction period and repaired, if necessary, after rainfall. Straw or hay bales
and/or silt fences must be installed along the base of all fills and cuts, on the downhill side of stock
piled soil, and along stream banks in cleared areas to prevent erosion into streams. They must be in-
stalled parallel to the stream channel, entrenched and staked, and extend the width of the area to bi
cleared. The bales and/or silt fence may be removed at the beginning of the work day, but must be
replaced at the end of the work day.
(h) Excavation and fill activities shall be separated from flowing waters. All surface water flowing toward
excavation or fill work shall be diverted through utilization of cofferdams, berms, or temporary chan-
nels. Temperary diversion channels must be protected by non-erodable material and lined to the et-
pcctid high water level. Cofferdams must be constructed of sand bags, clean rock, steel sheeting or
other non-erodable material.
(i) Slurry water pumped from work areas and excavations must be held in settling basins or treated by
filtration prior to its discharge into surface waters. Water must be held in sediment basins until at
ieast as clear as the receiving waters. Sedimentation basins shall not be located closer 20 feet
from the top bank of a stream. Sediment basins and traps shall be properly designed according to
the size of the drainage areas or volume of water to be treated.
G) Checkdams shall be utilized where runoff is concentrated. Clean rock, log, sandbag, or straw bale
cneckdams shall be properly constructed to detain runoff and trap «erfiment.
00 Clearing, grubbing and other disturbance to riparian vegetation shall be limited to the minimum
necessary for slope construction and equipment operations. Unnecessary vegetation removal is pro-
hibited. All disturbed areas shall be properly stabilized as soon as practicable.
0) Streams shall not be used as transporation routes for heavy equipment. Crossings must be limited to
one point and erosion control measures must be utilized where the stream banks are disturbed. Where
the stream bed is not composed of rock, a pad of clean rock must be used at the crossing point All
temporary fill must be completely removed after the work is completed.
November, 1991 (Revised)
<29.0023
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION
CHAPTER 1200-4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.07, continued)
(m) Construction debris must be kept from entering the stream channel.
(p) All spills of petroleum products or other chemical pollutants must be reported to the appropriate
emergency management agency and measures shall be taken immediately to prevent the pollution of
waters of the State, including groundwater.
(o) Upon achievement of final grade; all disturbed areas must be stabilized and re-vegetated within 30
days by sodding oi seeding and mulching. Seed to be utilized shall include a combination of annual
grains and grasses, legumes, and perennial grasses. Lime and fertilizer shall be applied as needed to
achieve a vegetative cover.
Authority: T.CA. ^69—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 et seq. Administrative History: Original rule filed October 8.1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
1200—4—7—v08 GENERAL PERMIT FOR UTILITY LINE CROSSINGS OF STREAMS.
(1) Construction of utility line crossing of streams is permitted by this rule provided the activity is done in
accordance with the terms and conditions of this rule and provided:
(a) an individual permit is not required;
(b) no portion of the activity is located in wetlands;
(c) no portion of the activity is located in a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System
or a State Scenic River, or streams within the property boundaries of public lands administered by
the National Park Service, the National Forest Service, the Tennessee Department of Environment and
Conservation and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency;
(d) no portion of the activity is located in any waterway which is indentified by the Department as having
contaminated sediments;
(e) the activitiy will not permanently disrupt the movement of aquatic life;
(f) no portion of the activity is located in a known habitat of State or Federally listed threatened or en-
dangered species; and
(£) the utility lines are no: proposed to convey hazardous materials as recognized by State and Federal
regulations.
(2) This general permit will expire August 1, 1996.
(3) For the purpose of this rule, bodies of water defined as navigable pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899 are subject to different restrictions than all other waters regarding the specific con-
struction methodologies to be employed under this general permit.
(a) When the activity is located in waters which art not navigable pursuant to Section 10, excavation and
fill activities shall be separated from flowing waters. All surface water flowing toward the excavation
or fill work shall be diverted, piped or flumed to the downstream side of the work. This can be ac-
complished through utilization of cofferdams or constructed berms in conjunction with a pipe or flume.
Cofferdams must be constructed of sand bags, clean rock, steel sheeting or other non-erodable material.
(b) Where the activity is located in waters defined as navigable pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1989, excavation and fill work may be accomplished within the water column.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0024
-------
AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION
CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.08, continued)
(4) Terms and Conditions.
(a) New utility line crossings shall be located such as to avoid permanent alteration or damage to the in-
tegrity of the stream channel. Large trees, steep banks, rock outcroppings, etc. should be avoided.
(b) In the case of proposed gravity sewer lines and other utility lines which follow the stream gradient
or otherwise parallel the stream channel, the number of crossing shall be minimized. Where cumulative
impacts are likely because of numerous crossing, an individual permit may be required.
(c) The alignment of new utility line crossings shall intersect the stream channel as close to 90 degrees
or as perpendicular as possible, and in no case less than 45 degrees angle from the center line of the
stream.
(d) In the case of small streams with a bedrock stream bed which must be blasted to form a trench, pro-
visision shall be made to prevent the loss of stream flow to fracturing of the bedrock. Where loss of
surface flow is likely to occur, an individual permit may be required.
(e) Temporary erosion control measures must be in place before earthmoving operations begin, maintain-
ed throughout the construction period and repaired, if necessary, after rainfall. Straw or hay bales
and/or cuts fence must be installed along the base of all fills and suts, on the downhill side of stock
piled soil, and along stream banks in cleared areas to prevent erosion into streams. They must be in-
stalled parallel to the stream channel, entrenched and staked, and extend the width of the area to be
cleared. The bales and/or silt fence may be removed at the beginning of the work day, but must be
replaced at the end of the workday.
(f) Backfill activities must be accomplished in a manner which stabilizes the stream bed and banks to
prevent erosion. Backfill materials shall consist of suitable materials free of contaminants. All con-
tours must be returned to pre-project conditions. The completed work may not disrupt or impound
stream flow.
(g) Slurry water pumped from work areas and excavations must be held in settling basins or treated by
filtration prior to its discharge into surface waters. Water must be held in sediment basins until at
least as clear as the receiving waters. Sedimentation basins shall not be located closer than 20 feet
from the top bank of a stream. Sediment basins and traps shall be properly designed according to
the size of the drainage areas or volume of water to be treated.
(h) Checkdams shall be utilized where runoff is concentrated. Gean rock, log, sandbag, or straw bale
checkaams shall be properly constructed to detain runoff and trap sediment.
0) Gearing, grubbing and other disturbance to riparian vegetation shall be limited to the minimum
necessary for slope contraction and equipment operations. Unnecessary vegetation removal is pro-
hibited. All disturbed areas shall be properly stabilized as soon as practicable.
Q) Streams shall not be used as transportation routes for heavy equipment. Crossings must be limited
to one point and erosion control measures must be utilized where the stream banks are disturbed. Where
the stream bed is not composed of rock, a pad of clean rock must be used at the crossing point. All
temporary Till must be completely removed after the work is completed.
(k) Construction debris must be kept from entering the stream channel.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0025
-------
AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.08, continued)
0) All spills of petroleum products or other chemical pollutants must be reported to the appropriate
emergency management agency and measures shall be taken immediately to prevent the pollution of
waters of the State, including groundwater.
(m) Upon achievement of final grade, the disturbed streambank shall be stabilized with riprap or other
suitable material. All other disturbed soils must be stabilized and re-vegetated within 30 days by sod-
ding or seeding and mulching. Seed to be utilized shall include combination of annual grains and grasses,
legumes, and perennial grasses, lime and fertilizer shall be applied as needed to achieve a vegetative color.
(n) Upon completion of construction, the stream shall be returned as nearly as possible to its original,
natural conditions.
Authority: T.CA. S169—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 etstq. Administrative History: Original rule fried October 8,1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
1200—<—7—.09 GENERAL PERMIT FOR BANK STABILIZATION All 1VI1 IKS.
(I) Bank stabilization activities are permitted by this rule provided the activity is done In accordance with the
terms and conditions of this rule and provided:
(a) an individual permit is not required;
(b) the activity is necessary to repair or prevent bank erosion;
(c) no ponion of the activity is located in wetlands;
(d) no portion of the activity is located in a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System
or a State Scenic River, or streams within the property boundaries of public lands administered by
the National Park Service, the National Forest Service, the Tennessee Department of Environment and
Conservation and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency;
(e) no portion of the activity is located in any waterway which is identified by the Department as havinp
contaminated sediments;
(0 the activity will not permanently disrupt the movement of aquatic life; and
(g) no portion of the activity is located in a known habitat of State or Federally listed threatened or en-
dangered species.
(2) This general permit will expire August 1, 1996.
(3) Terms and Conditions.
(a) Persons proposing to conduct streambank stabilization activities in waters of the State shall notify
the Department by submission of an application which includes the following minimum information:
1. z map showing the exact location of the proposed construction site; and
2. i single copy of construction plans which includes specifications for proposed stream channel
alterations and pollution control methods or structures.
Co) Stream aJteration activities shall not commence until the Commissioner issues written notification that
the proposal may proceed in accordance with the terms of this rule or issues an individual permit.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0026
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.09, continued)
(c) Stream bank disturbance associated with stabilization shall be limited to the minimum needed for abate-
ment and prevention or stream bank erosion.
(d) Material may not be placed in such location or manner so as to impair surface water flow into or
out of any wetland area.
(e) Materia1? used in stabilization shall include clean shot rock, rip rap or anchored trees or other non-
erodable materials found in the natural environment. Stabilization materials shall not include gravel,
sand, sediments, chert, soil, or other unconsolidated materials. Materials to be discharged shall be
free of contaminants, including toxic pollutants, hazardous substances, waste metal, construction debris,
organic materials, etc.
(f) Streams shall not be used as transportation routes for heavy equipment. Crossings must be limited
to one point and erosion control measures must be utilized where the stream banks are disturbed, Where
the stream bed is not composed of rock, a pad of clean rock must be used at the crossing point. All
temporary fill must be completely removed after the work is completed.
(g) Vegetation and debris disturbed by activity at the construction site shall be removed from the site to
such a location so as to prevent reentry into the waterway.
(h) Clearing, grubbing and other disturbance to riparian vegetation shall be limited to the minimum
necessary for slope construction and equipment operations. Unnecessary vegetation removal is pro-
hibited. All disturbed areas shall be properly stabilized as soon as practicable:
(i) Upon achievement of final grade, all disturbed areas must be stabilized and re-vegetated within 30
days by sodding or seeding and mulching. Seed to be utilized shall include a combination of annual
grains and grasses, legumes, and perennial grasses. Lime and fertilizer shall be applied as needed to
achieve a vegetative cover.
(3) For the purpose of this rule, bodies of water defined as navigable pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1989 are subject to different restrictions than all other waters regarding the scope and type
of bank stabilization activities authorized under this general permit. Where the activity is located in waters
which are not navigable pursuant to Section 10, the following special conditions apply:
(a) Removal of living trees and other riparian vegetation which help comprise the integrity of the stream
bank or which help provide canopy or shade to the waters or the placement of fill which would other-
wise injure or damage stream side vegetation is not authorized by this rule.
(b) Grading, sloping, dredging or reshaping of the steam banks or bed is cot authorized by this ruie.
(c) The discharge of stabilization materials is limited to 200 linear feet of stream bank.
(4) Where the activity is located in waters defined as navigable pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and Habors
Act of 1989, the following special conditions apply:
(a) the discharge of materials is limited to less than an average of one cubic yard per running foot placed
along the bank;
(b) the activity may be up to 500 feet in length.
Authority: T.CA. §§69—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 et seq. Administrative History: Original rule filed October 8, 1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0027
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION CHAPTER 1200—4—7
1200—4—7—.10 GENERAL PERMIT FOR SAND AND GRAVEL DREDGING.
(1) Dredging of sand or gravel in any waters of the State is permitted by this rule provided it is done in accor-
dance with all terms and conditions of this rule and provided:
(a) an individual permit is not required;
(b) no portion of the activity is located «'n wetlands;
(c) no portion of the activity is located in a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System
or a State Scenic River, or streams within the property boundaries of public lands administered by
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, the National Forest Service, the Tkn-
nessee Department of Environment and Conservation or the Tfennessee Wildlife Resources Agency;
(d) no portion of the activity is located in any waterway which is identified by the Department as having
contaminated sediments;
(e) the activitiy will not permanently disrupt the movement of aquatic life; and
(f) no portion of the activity is located in a known habitat of State or Federally listed threatened or en-
dangered species.
(2) This genera] permit will expire August 1, 1996.
(3) This rule does not authorize the discharge of any substance into waters of the State, for any purpose, in-
cluding dredged or fill material.
(4) Authorization by this rule does not relieve the applicant from requirements of other applicable federal, state,
and local law.
(5) This rule does not authorize the removal of material from streams for the purpose of flood control or
channelization.
(5) Terms and Conditions.
(a) Persons proposing to dredge sand and gravel in waters of State shall submit a notifcation form to the
Department which includes a work plan with the following minimum information:
1. a map (or copy) snowing the exact location of the proposed dredging site; and
2. a sketch or drawing of the gravel deposit in relation to the stream, including the access point.
(b) Dredging shall not commence until the Commissioner issues written notification that the proposal
may proceed in accordance with the terms of this rule or issues an individual permit.
(c) The operation shall be conducted in the dry. A berm of at least five feet in width shall be left between
the work area and the stream flow, or of such width as necessary to separate the excavation from the
water in the stream. Berm is defined here as natural undisturbed material that is left between the dredging
area and the stream.
(d) Access to the work area shall be made at one point only, limiting disruption of trees and other stream
cover to an area less than 20 feet wide.
(e) S:ream crossing shall be limited to a single right angle crossing directly adjacent to the grave! bar.
November, 1991 (Revised)
<29.0028
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION CHAPTER 1200—4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.10, continued)
(f) Measures shall be taken to prevent erosion and sedimentation. When work is completed in an area,
normal physical characteristic of the work area shall be recreated to the extent that machinery can
do so without causing additional disturbance. This shall be accomplished by grading the site to smooth
contours without disturbing the berm or its bank.
(g) Vegetation and debris disturbed during dredging or dredge site preparation shall be removed to an
upland location and placed in such a manner as to prevent re-entry into the stream.
(h) Dredged material shall not be stored or stockpiled in the stream bed.
Authority; T.CA. ^69—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 et seg. Administrative History: Original rule filed October 8,1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
1200—4—7—.11 GENERAL PERMIT FOR DEBRIS REMOVAL.
0) Removal of debris from streams is permitted by this rule provided it is done in accordance with all terms
and conditions of this rule, and provided the Department does not require an individual permit.
(2) This general permit will expire August 1, 1996.
(3) Terms and Conditions.
(a) Sediment removal is not authorized under this nile except in accordance with the requirements of (3)(b),
which is for the removal of unconsolidated sediments from around bridges and culverts.
(b) Unconsolidated sediments, such as sand and gravel may be removed from the vicinity of bridges, culverts
and low water crossings provided that the following requirements are adhered to:
1. All work must be performed within one hundred feet of the bridge culvert or low water crossing.
2. There shall be no disruption of the stream banks except at the access point.
I. All disturbed material shall b: removed from the stream channel.
(c) This rule does not authorize the removal of any living streambank vegetation except when the vegeta-
tion is causing a direct blockage of flow, or when removal is needed to allow access to the debris ac-
cumulation. Trees in proximity to the stream (alive or dead) which, because of undermining or mor-
tality, are likely to cause a problem in the near future may be removed. However, where the roots help
provide stability to the streambank, the roots should be left intact.
(d) Equipment that will cause the least damage to the enviroment shall be selected for performing the
debris removal. First consideration shall be given to the use of hand operated equipment such as PW.
chain saws, and winches to remove accumulations of debris. Major accumulations of debris may be
removed by small tractors, backhoes, small trackholes, small bulldozers, and log skidden. However,
no work by larger equipment is authorized.
(e) Access to the work area shall be made at one point only, limiting disruption of trees and other stream
cover to an area less than twenty feet wide and measures shall be taken to prevent erosion.
(f) Debris removed from the stream shall be moved to an upland location and secured in such a manner
as to prevent its reentry into the stream channel.
(g) No removal of material shall result in draining or alteration of any wetland.
November, 1991 (Revised)
429.0029
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AQUATIC RESOURCE ALTERATION CHAPTER 1200-4—7
(Rule 1200—4—7—.11, continued)
(h) No materia] removed from the stream shall be deposited in wetlands.
Authority: T.CA. $169—3—105(b) and 4—5—201 et seg. Administrative History: Original rule filed October 6, 1991;
effective November 22, 1991.
November. 1991 (Revised)
429.00210
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U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
List of Navigable Waters of the United States pursuant to the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899
Navigable Waters Within the Memphis District
I. Forked Deer River - Mouth to Mile 25 (confluence with North and South
Forks).
A. North Fork Forked Deer River (FDRM 25) - Mouth to Mile 6
(Dyersburg, TN).
B. South Fork Forked Deer River (FDRM 25) - Mouth to Mile 94
(Jackson, TN).
II. Hatchie River - Mouth to Mile 140 (Bolivar, TN).
III.Obi on River - Mouth to Mile 69.1 (Obion, TN).
IV. Vclf River - Mouth to Mile 15 (Raleigh, TN).
Navigable Waters Within the Nashville District
CUMBERLAND RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES
-• Cumberland River (CRl - Mouth to Mile 694.2 (Head of River, Confluence of
Poor Fork and Clover Fork, at Harlan, Kentucky).
h- Little River (CRM 59.0) - Mouth to Mile 60.9 (Confluence of the North
end South Forks).
E. Red River (CRM 125.2) - Mouth to Mile 76.5 (Prices Mill Dam).
West Fork Red River (Red River Mile 1.2) - Mouth to Mile 7.4 (Head
of Slackvaters of Barkley Lake).
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ORNOR-F 86-23
. «• - m;i» 5) - Mouth to Mile 26.6
2. Sulphur Fork Red River (Red River M:tie
(Road Bridge 1.5 Miles Northeast of Spring ie »
w« 0 1 « Mouth to Mile 8.7 (Road
3. Elk Fork Red River (Red River Mile
Bridge Near Darnell, Kentucky).
/v a River Mile 54.9)- Mouth to Mile 11 (Head of
4. Whippoorwill Creek (Red River iui«
Slackwaters of Lickskillet Mill Dam).
(va River Mile 56.9) - Mouth to Mile 7.9
5. South Fork Red River (Red River
(Tennessee-Kentucky State Line).
C. (OB 1«.M - 1U-S (DS 4U
1. J.... Creek (H.rP«h Riv.r Mil. 10.6) Mouth to Mil. 14.4,
Highway 47 Bridge).
2. tuxaban^i «.rp«b Riv.r Mil. 35.1) Mouth to Mil. 13.1.
(Tennessee Highway 96 Bridge).
3. Harp.th Riv.r OUrf.th Riv.r Mil. 43.4) Mouth to Mil. 8.4,
(Old Harding Pike Bridge).
v..- *.r..th Riv.r (Harpeth Ri«r Mil. 78.7) Mouth to Mil. 8.6
(Confluence with Leipers Fork).
S. Stone. Riv.r (CRM 205.6) - Mouth to Mil. 38-6 (Conflu.nc. of S.»t .nd
e£i "rrks, Stones River).
River - Mouth to Mil. 38.2 (Conflu.nc. e£ Cr.er.
Fork).
1. Fori:. Sr»n« F.iver - Mouth to Mile 21.6 (Confluence o: Kisc.i
Tsri: Stones r.iver;.
- - - • rrsy 309 2) - Mouth to Mile 134.2 (Cumberland County
wEnev rorK ?>-ver (CRT.
Highway triage;.
.. faith Fork Creek (C.n.y Tork Mil. 15.9) Mouth to Mil. 30.5 CD.K.H
County Highway Bride near Cottage Home, Tennessee).
Water Riv.r (Cmj Fork Mil. 53.4) Mouth to Mil. 10.2 (Bui
ci Slackvaters of Center Hill L»ke).
2. Collins Riv.r CCney Fork Mile 91.2) Mouth to Mil. 55.2 (Conflu.nc.
with Big Creek).
£. Barren Fork (Collins RiverMile 21.5) Mouth to Mile 22.1 (Warren
County Highway Bridge near Trousdale, -ennessee;.
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ORNOR-F 86-23
M. Flint River (TRM 339.1) - Mouth to Mile 51.2 (Madison County Highway
Bridge Due East of Fisk, Alabama).
N. Paint Rock River (TRM 343.2) - Mouth to Mile 60.0 (Confluence of Estill
Fork and Hurricane Creek).
1. Estill Fork (Paint Rock River Mile 60.0) - Mouth to Mile 10.0
(Confluence of Keller and Dry Creeks).
2. Hurricane Creek (Paint Rock River Mile 60.0) - Mouth to Mile 7.4
(John Gifford Hollow).
0. Town Creek (TRM 360.8) - Mouth to Mile 14.0 (High Falls).
P. Short Creek (TRM 360.8) - Mouth to Mile 6.5 (Short Creek Falls).
Q* Crow Creek (TRM 401.1) - Mouth to Mile 33.7 (Confluence with Dry Creek).
R. Sequatchie River (TRM 422.7) - Mouth to Mile 66.3 (Site of Cooper Mill
Dam).
1. Little Seouatchie River (Sequatchie River Mile 8.0) Mouth to Mile
6.0 (One Mile North of Coppinger Chapel).
S. South Chickamauga Creek (TRM 468.2) ~ Mouth to Mile 17.3) (Tennessee-
Georgia S:a:e line).
i. West Chickaaauea Creek (South Chickamauga Creek Mile 13.2) Mouth to
Mils 2.2 (Tennessee-Georgia State Line).
T. North Chickaasugs. Creek (TRM 470.5) - Mouth to Mile 17.4 (U.S. Highway
27 Bridge,).
Hives see River (TRM 500.3) - Mouth to Kile 65.£ (Tennessee-Korth
Carolina ftate line).
I. Ocoee River (Eiwassee River Mile 34.4) - Mouth to Mile 38.B
(Tennessee-Georgia State Line).
V. Pinev River (TRM 532.5) - Mouth to Mile 8.9 (Confluence with Soak Creek).
V. Clinch River (TRM 567.7) - Mouth to Mile 202.1 (Tennessee-Virginia State
Line).
I. Emorv River (Clinch River Mile 4.4) - Mouth to Mile 45.3 (Site of
Macedonia Church).
£. Obed River (Enorv River Kilt 28.4} - Mouth to Kilt 34.5 (U.S.
Highway 127 5ricge).
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ORNOR-F 86-23
C. Big Sandy River (TRM 67.0) - Mouth to Mile 52.6 (Carroll County Highway
Bridge near Wildersville, Tennessee).
1. West Fork Big Sandy River (Big Sandy River Mile 8.8) - Mouth to Mile
8.2 (Tennessee Highway 69 Bridge).
D. Duck River (TRM 110.8) - Mouth to Mile 262.8 (Head of Slackwaters of
Nornandy Lake).
1. Buffalo River (Duck River Mile 15.4) - Mouth to Mile 116.7 (Lawrence
County Highway Bridge at Henryville, Tennessee).
E. Beech River (TRM 135.7) - Mouth to Mile 21.6 (Henderson County, Highway
Bridge near Chesterfield, Tennessee).
F. Yellow Creek (TRM 215.1) - Mouth to Mile 32.1 (Head, Tennessee Valley
Divide).
C. Bear Creek (TRM 224.7) - Mouth to Mile 130.0 (Head of Slackwaters of
Upper Bear Creek Lake).
1» Cedar Creek (Bear Creek Mile 27.7) - Mouth to Mile 38.3 (Head of
Slackwaters of Cedar Creek Lake).
*• Little Bear Creek (Cedar Creek Mile 14.9) - Mouth to Mile 23.1 (Head
cf Slackwaters of Little Bear Creek Lake).
H. Cvoress Creek (TRM 255.0) - Mouth to Mile.17.6 (Lauderdale County
Highway Bridge).
-• Little Cvpress Creek (Cypress Creek Mile 10.2) - Mouth to Mile E.C
(Head of Slackwaters of Sharps Kill Lake).
-• Shoal Creek (TRM 264.1) - houth to Mile 56.0 (Confluence with i"Lt
Sr.3£l Creek).
1. Factory Creek (Shoal Creek Mile 28.6) - Mouth tc Mile 5.T (Wayne
County Highway Bridge 0.1 Mile Upstreac cf Couch Branch).
Elk River (TRM 284.3) - Mouth to Kile 194.1 (US Highway 41 Bridge).
1. Richland Creek (Elk River Mile 42.6) - Mouth to Mile 48.6 (Con-
fluence with Clear Creek).
K. Flint Creek (TRM 308.4) - Mouth to Mile 28.2 (Kuckaba Bridge).
Limestone Creek (TRM 310.7) - Mouth to Mile 32.0 (Confluence with Little
limestone Creek).
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ORNOR-F 86-23
I. Buck Creek (CRM 533.8) - Mouth to Mile 45.0 (Kentucky Highway 70 Bridge).
J. Rockcastle River (CRM 546.4) - Mouth to Mile 53.2 (Confluence of Middle
and South Forks).
1. South Fork Rockcastle River - Mouth to Mile 8.5, (Confluence with
Fond Creek).
2. Middle Fork Rockcastle River - Mouth to Mile 7.8, (Confluence of
Indian Creek and Laurel Fork).
3. Roundstone Creek (Rockcastle River Mile 43.1) - Mouth to Mile 13.4,
(Confluence with Renfro Creek).
K. Laurel River (CRM 552.1) - Mouth to Mile 30.5 (Head of Slackwatera of
Dorethea Lake).
L. Clear Fork of Cumberland River (CRM 592.3) - Mouth to Mile 33.0
(Confluence with Tackett Creek).
1. Hickory Creek (Clear Fork of Cumberland River Mile 28.2) - Mouth to
Mile 9.6 (Confluence with Stinking Creek).
M. Poor Fork of Cumberland River (CRM 694.2) - Mouth to Mile 39.9 (Con-
fluence with Franks Creek).
N. Clover Fork of Cumberland River (CRM 694.2) - Mouth to Mile 11.0 (Mouth
of 5ailey Creek).
i. Martins Fork of Cumberland River (Clover Fork of Cumberland River
Mile 1.6) - Mouth to Miie 19.5. (Head of Slackwaters cf Martins Fork Lake).
TENNESSEE RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES
II. Tennessee River (TK) - Mouth to Mile 652.1 (Head, Confluence of French
Iroac and Hois con Rivers).
A. Ciarks River (TRM 4.3) - Mouth to Mile 20.2 (ELVA Bridge).
1. West Fork Clarka River (Clarks River Mile 12.7) - Mouth to Mile 11.9
(Kahler Bridge).
5. Blood River (TRM 50.7) - Mouth to Mile 9.7 (Kentucky Highway 121 Bridge).
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ORNOR-F 86-23
(1) Hickory Creek (Barren Fork Mile 10.5) Mouth to Mile 12.6, (Con-
fluence with West Fork).
4. Rocky River (Caney Fork Mile 92.6) Mouth to Mile 9.6, (Head of
Slackvaters of Great Falls Lake)*
5. Calfkiller River (Caney Fork Mile 104.6) Mouth to Mile 23.3,
(Confluence with Cherry Creek).
6. Cane Creek (Caney Fork Mile 108.8) Mouth to Mile 10.8, (Confluence
with Indian Camp Branch).
F. Roaring River (CRM 357.8) Mouth to Mile 22.3 (Site of Johnson Falls).
1. Spring Creek (Roaring River Mile 12.0) Mouth to Mile 8.6, (Site of
Waterloo Falls).
2. Blackburn Fork (Roaring River Mile 8.0) Mouth to Mile 14.3, (Site of
Cunmins Falls).
G. Obey River (CRM 380.9) - Mouth to Mile 58.2 (Confluence of East Fork and
West Fork Obey River).
1. East Fork Obey River - Mouth to Mile 29.6 (Confluence with Hurricane
Creek). '
2. West Fork Obey River - Mouth to Mile 20.0 (Confluence with Dry
Hollow Branch).
3. Wolf River (Obey River Mile 31.1) - Mouth to Mile 35.6 (Confluence
with Rotten Fork).
Sie South Fork Cumberland River (CRM 516.0) - Mouth to Miic TT.C
'Ccr.fluence of Clear Fork River and New River).
!• little South Fork (BSF River Mile 26.1) - Mouth to Kiie 21.5 (et
rarcieysville, Kentucky).
2. Rock Creek (BSF F.iver Kile 4D.9) - Mouth to Mile 2.6 (at White Oak
Junction, Kentucky).
3. North Whiteoak Creek (BSF River Mile 71.5) - Mouth to Mile 6.5 (at
Zenith, Tennessee).
4. New River - Mouth to Mile 36.0 (Confluence with Smoky Creek).
5. Clear Fork River - Mouth to Mile 25.8 (at Gatewood's Bridge).
£• Whiteoak Creek (Clear Fork River Mile 9.4) - Mouth to Milt 5.6
Ciennessee Highway 52 Bridge).
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ORNOR-F 86-23
a. West Prong, Little Pigeon River (Little Pigeon River Mile 4.7) Mouth
Co Mile 12.3* (Chanpisans Highway Bridge).
b. East Fork Little Pigeon River (Little Pigeon River Mile 9.6) Mouth
to Mile 11.0 (Confluence of Long Branch and Dunn Creek).
2. Nolichucky River (French Broad River Mile 69.1) - Mouth to Mile 100.8
(Tennessee-North Carolina State Line).
a. Lick Creek (Nolichucky River Mile 16.0) - Mouth to Mile 49.8 (Lick
Creek Mill).
3. Pigeon River (French Broad River Mile 73.8) - Mouth to Mile 25.9
(Tennessee-North Carolina State Line).
In addition, embayments and tributary streams of all impounded reservoirs of
navigable waters of the United States are also considered navigable waters of
the United States to the extent of slackvaters. and jurisdiction vill be exer-
cised accordingly.
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ORNOR-F 86-23
(1) Clear Creek (Obed River Mile 4.4) - Mouth to Mile 29 (U.S. Highway
127 Bridge). "
(a) White Creek (Clear Creek Mile 8.8) - Mouth to Mile 6.9 (Twin
Bridges).
(2) Paddys Creek (Obed River Mile 9.1) - Mouth to Mile 33.9 (Tennessee
Highway 28 Bridge).
2. Poplar Creek (Clinch River Mile 12.0) - Mouth to Mile 18.3
(Tennessee Highway 61 Bridge).
3. Powell River (Clinch River Milt 88.8) - Mouth to Mile 115.7
(Tennessee-Virginia State Line).
X. Little Tennessee River (TRM 601.3) - Mouth to Mile 49.4 (Tennessee-North
Carolina State Line).
1. Tellico River (Little Tennessee River Mile 19.2) - Mouth to Mile
37.0 (One aile downstream of Bald River Falls).
Y. Little River (TRM 635.6) - Mouth to Mile 50.5 (At Eltaont, Tennessee).
2. Holston River (TRM 652.1) - Mouth to Mile 142.2 (Head, Confluence of
North and South Fork Holston River).
1. North Fork Holston River (Holston River Mile 142.2) - Mouth to Mile
5.0 (Tennessee-Virginia State Line).
South Fork Holston River (Holston River Mile 142.2) - Mouth to Milt
~2'Heac zi Siackwaters o; South Hoiscor. Lake).
c. .'atEuzt River (South Fork Kelstor. River Mile 15.9/ - Mouth Mi.t
:5.1 ' Ter.r.essee-North Carolina State Line).
CI; Doe River (Watauga River Miie 26.4) Mouth to Mile 22.T, '1.- eiies
SSW cf r.oar. Mountain).
(2) Elk River (Watauga River Mile 46.E) Mouth to Mile 14.5 "(Tennessee-
North Carolina State Line).
b. Middle Fork Holston River (South Fork Holston River Mile 72.3) -
Mouth to Mile 1.3 (Head of Slackwaters of South Holston Lake).
AA. French Broad River (TRM 652.1) - Mouth to Mile 102.6 (Tennessee-North
Carolina State Line).
I. Little Pigeon River (French Broad River Mile 27.4) - Mouth to Miie
25.5 (Highway 73 sricge).
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CONTACT LIST
Please contact these agencies for assistance with aquatic alteration activities:
U.S Department of Agriculture (Check your local listing for an office near you)
Agriculture Resources Division
Tennessee Dept. of Agriculture
Ellington Agriculture Center
P.O. Box 40627
Nashville, Tennessee 37204
(615)360-1008
Forestry Water Quality Management Program
Tennessee Div. of Forestry
Ellington Agriculture Center
P.O. Box 40627
Nashville, Tennessee 37204
(615)360-0756
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Division of Water
Pollution Control Offices:
Natural Resources Section
7th Floor, L&C Annex
401 Church Street
Nashville, Tennessee 37243
(615)532-0625
Nonpoint Source Section
7th Floor, L&C Annex
401 Church Street
Nashville, Tennessee 37243
(615)532-0625
Check Aquatic and Permits and Regulations, Section III for Water Pollution Control field
office addresses and phone numbers.
Ray D. Hedrick
U.S. Army Corps, of Engineers
Room A - 452 U.S. Courthouse
Nashville, Tennessee 37202
(615)736-5026
Wayne Pollack
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
P.O. Box 40747
Nashville Tn. 37204
(615)781-6500
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library Region IV
fJS Environmental Protection Agmcy
$45 Courtland Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
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