Importance of Site-Specific Regional Curve Generation for Design of Stream Mitigation Banks
Amy Schultz, PE
Beaver Creek Hydrology, LLC
Lexington, KY
Regional curve analysis is arguably the most important design consideration when implementing the Rosgen Natural Channel Design (NCD) methodology. Step 1 in the 40-step NCD procedure calls for obtaining and verifying regional curves within the same hydro-physiographic province as that of the restoration reach to predict bankfull discharge and cross-sectional dimensions (Chapter 11 of Part 654 Stream Restoration Design National Engineering Handbook). Accurate bankfull calibration from regional curve data is paramount when designing stable, self-sustaining stream systems; however, most published regional curve data analyzes USGS stream gaging stations for bankfull flow dimensions (i.e., large drainage areas). The published range of regional curve data might not always be applicable to a site, especially when designing headwater streams or streams with much smaller drainage areas. In those cases, identifying bankfull in a site-specific dataset can provide an appropriate range of values. This presentation examines the appropriateness of applying published regional curve data to headwater stream mitigation bank sites, specifically in Kentucky and Tennessee, and compares site-specific data to published regional curve data. This data comparison and analysis allows for the generation of a site-specific regional curve for a given range of drainage areas which can confidently be used to design stable stream systems.
About Amy Schultz, PE
Coming Amy Schultz is a Project Manager at Beaver Creek Hydrology, who has spent eight years of her career specializing in stream and wetland restoration design and permitting. Amy has experienced all sides of restoration permitting, including conducting geomorphic field surveys for design and monitoring, providing construction oversight to implement stream design methodologies, and managing the 404/401 permit application process for large-scale mitigation banks. This comprehensive skill set positions her as a valuable contributor to the stream restoration field. Attendees of the National Stream Restoration Conference can look forward to gaining insights from Amy's extensive experience, learning about innovative approaches to stream restoration, and understanding the importance of ecological balance in hydrology projects.