Barbara A. Doll

Restoration Case Studies for Incised Rural North Carolina Streams

Many rural North Carolina streams are degraded due to historic channelization, dredging, and loss of riparian vegetation. The resulting incised channels have poor habitat and unstable bed features and streambanks. Stream restoration options for incised channels include constructing a new stable channel at the floodplain elevation, enhancing the floodplain at the existing channel elevation, or stabilizing streambanks in place. This paper describes six North Carolina stream projects completed since 1998 that make use of a variety of techniques to restore incised streams. Components of each project include channel geometry modification, in-stream structures, streambank stabilization, and riparian corridor restoration. Project objectives are to improve water quality and habitat, reduce streambank erosion, and enhance floodplain functions. The Yates Mill Tributary project is a Priority 1 restoration in which an incised stream was relocated at a higher elevation on the adjacent floodplain. The Bobs Creek, Muddy Creek, and South Fork Mitchell River projects are Priority 2 restorations in which channel geometry was modified at the existing elevation to create a new meandering stream with enhanced floodplain. The Cove Creek project is a Priority 3 restoration in which the floodplain of an incised straightened channel was widened and boulder structures were used to protect streambanks. The Shawneehaw Creek project is an example of stabilizing existing channels in place using instream structures and riparian vegetation. The planning, design, construction, and monitoring of these projects are described along with lessons learned about effective restoration techniques.

Natural Channel Design Applications for Restoring Incised Streams in North Carolina

Numerous stream restoration projects are being undertaken in North Carolina for the purpose of improving stream stability, water quality, and aquatic habitat. These projects typically involve geomorphic and biological assessments to determine existing conditions, engineering designs, stream channel construction, streambank stabilization, riparian corridor enhancements, and follow-up monitoring to determine project success. This paper describes specific applications of natural channel design techniques and lessons learned from several urban stream restoration projects throughout North Carolina. Results are beneficial to stream project managers and designers to ensure effective use of public resources in stream restoration projects.