637 - Exploring the Effect of Instream Boulders on Bed Load Transport

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

2:00 PM – 2:15 PM CT

Room: S 102 B

Author(s)

Abul BM Baki, n/a

Assistant Professor
Clarkson University

Co-Author(s)

Eric K. Dewitt

Graduate Student
Clarkson University
Mohammad Z. Rahman

Ph.D. student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Clarkson University
ST

Sajjad Tusher
WW

Weiming Wu, Dr.

Professor
Clarkson University

In the context of stream restoration, the strategic placement of instream boulders holds a strong correlation with both enhancing habitat complexity and influencing sediment transport. However, little has been known about their effects on sediment transport in the river. To improve our practical understanding of sediment transport within boulder arrangements, the present study experimentally observed bed load transport over a mobile gravel bed with various submerged boulder densities in an open flume. This investigation examined the interplay between boulder concentration, bed slope, and flow rates. Key findings include the development of a predictive formula for estimating sediment transport rates and the identification of a critical boulder density that, when strategically placed, optimizes sediment transport efficiency. This research sheds light on the complex interactions among boulder concentrations, bed slopes, and sediment transport, with practical implications for stream restoration, fish passages, and river management.