Author(s): G. Bombino; V. Tamburino; D. A. Zema; S. M. Zimbone
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Abstract: A detailed knowledge of interactions between fluvial dynamics and ecological processes in proximity to check dams allows optimization of maintenance works and mitigation of effects on river morphology and vegetation. This is particularly important in steep mountainous reaches that are otherwise little affected by human activities. This paper quantifies the impacts of check-dams on fluvial landforms and riparian vegetation in the headwater of a mountain torrent (Sant’Agata) located in the Calabria region (Southern Italy). To achieve this goal, original methods previously developed and tested by the same authors on semi-arid mountain water courses have been applied. Detailed field measurements along transects across the active channel around 5 check dams support estimation of vegetal (i. e. vegetation extent, development, cross-sectional variability and species richness), geomorphological (i. e. channel width: depth ratio, surface grain size, subsurface fine sediment content) and hydraulic (specific discharge) indices. Fifteen transects were surveyed, which were located immediately upstream (5 transects), downstream (5 transects) and at control sites less disturbed by the presence of the control works (5 transects). Indices estimated from these transect measurements demonstrate that contrasts in channel form, river discharge and sediment grain size are associated with more consistent vegetation development and an increase in species richness upstream of check dams compared to other transects. Control sections between check dams appear to be similar in form to channels located immediately downstream of check dams, leading to similar structural properties in the riparian vegetation.
Year: 2010