Stream channel reference sites: An illustrated guide to field technique

Abstract

This document is a guide to establishing permanent reference sites for gathering data about the physical characteristics of streams and rivers. The minimum procedure consists of the following: (1) select a site, (2) map the site and location, (3) measure the channel cross-section, (4) survey a longitudinal profile of the channel, (5) measure stream flow, (6) measure bed material, and (7) permanently file the information with the Vigil network. The document includes basic surveying techniques, provides guidelines for identifying bankfull indicators and measuring other important stream characteristics. The object is to establish the baseline of existing physical conditions for the stream channel. With this foundation, changes in the character of streams can be quantified for monitoring purposes or to support other management decisions.

Factors influencing wood mobilization in streams

“…We used a survey laser and measuring tape to survey cross sections every 10 m, except at the two largest streams where 40 of 80 (Beaver River) or 12 of 50 (Knife River) 10 m sections were surveyed. Cross sections were referenced to one another using frequent turning points [Harrelson et al, 1994]. We recorded elevations near inflection points along the cross section and calculated the bed slope for each reach as the slope between the lowermost points at the upstream and downstream ends of the reach.…”

An assessment methodology for determining historical changes in mountain streams

“…Because the surface is relatively flat, located adjacent to the active channel, and inundated by frequently occurring flows, it is considered to be the active floodplain. further discussed by Leopold (1994) and Harrelson et al (1994).…”

“…If the geomorphic history and spatial organization of geomorphic elements (as depicted on maps) are understood at a reference site, then these histories can be extrapolated to other reaches that exhibit the same geomorphic organization. While the basic techniques of surveying and other methods of stream channel characterization are well described in Harrelson et al (1994), techniques of detailed geomorphic mapping are not discussed.…”

“…Geomorphic change can be directly measured, or it can be estimated by comparing the conditions of different streams within an explicit experimental design (e.g., traditional paired watershed studies). While there is no substitute for the development of a long-term, reproducible data base, such as described by Harrelson et al (1994), there are data sets available that can be used to quantify geomorphic change. Some of the best data sets are photographs and government-sponsored surveys and investigations.…”

An Assessment of Permanent and Nonpermanent Plots in Riparian Vegetation Monitoring

“…We used the PIBO protocol definition of greenline: the first plot with >25% perennial vegetation adjacent to the stream, between the upper and lower limit (Leary and Ebertowski 2010) or above bankfull elevation, and the lower limit was where the streambed met the stream bank (Leary and Ebertowski 2010). Bankfull elevation was defined by Harrelson et al (1994). We measured 2 sets of 2 parallel transects per stream (Fig.…”