A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
Geomorphic and environmental effects of instream gravel mining
AbstractInstream gravel mining involves the mechanical removal of gravel and sand directly from the active channel of rivers and streams. Active channel deposits are desirable as construction aggregate because they are typically durable (weak materials having been eliminated in river transport), well-sorted, and frequently located near markets or on transportation routes. Instream gravel mining commonly causes incision of the channel bed, which can propagate upstream and downstream for kilometers. As a result, bridges and other structures may be undermined, spawning gravels lost and alluvial water tables lowered. In analyzing the effects of instream gravel mining, a sediment budget analysis sheds light on the relative magnitude of gravel supply, transport and extraction. Computer models of sediment transport are simplifications of complex natural processes; they can be useful components of a sediment budget analysis but should not be relied upon alone. A historical analysis of channel change and sediment supply is needed to understand the underlying processes responsible for present conditions. While instream gravel mining can be a useful tool in flood control and river stabilization in aggrading rivers, most rivers in the developed world (certainly the vast majority below reservoirs) are not aggrading and are more prone to incision-related effects of instream gravel mining.
Geomorphic and environmental effects of instream gravel mining
AbstractInstream gravel mining involves the mechanical removal of gravel and sand directly from the active channel of rivers and streams. Active channel deposits are desirable as construction aggregate because they are typically durable (weak materials having been eliminated in river transport), well-sorted, and frequently located near markets or on transportation routes. Instream gravel mining commonly causes incision of the channel bed, which can propagate upstream and downstream for kilometers. As a result, bridges and other structures may be undermined, spawning gravels lost and alluvial water tables lowered. In analyzing the effects of instream gravel mining, a sediment budget analysis sheds light on the relative magnitude of gravel supply, transport and extraction. Computer models of sediment transport are simplifications of complex natural processes; they can be useful components of a sediment budget analysis but should not be relied upon alone. A historical analysis of channel change and sediment supply is needed to understand the underlying processes responsible for present conditions. While instream gravel mining can be a useful tool in flood control and river stabilization in aggrading rivers, most rivers in the developed world (certainly the vast majority below reservoirs) are not aggrading and are more prone to incision-related effects of instream gravel mining.
Geomorphic and environmental effects of instream gravel mining
Mathias Kondolf, G. (author)
Landscape and Urban Planning ; 28 ; 225-243
1993-09-16
19 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Geomorphic and environmental effects of instream gravel mining
| Online Contents | 1994
Environmental planning in regulation and management of instream gravel mining in California
| Online Contents | 1994