Author(s): A. Jacob Odgaard
Linked Author(s): A. Jacob Odgaard
Keywords: Sediment management; Submerged vanes; Re-meandering and realignment of rivers; Channel stabilization; Bank restoration
Abstract: Submerged vanes are an unobtrusive and cost-effective way for river engineers to stabilize a river channel. The vanes are small flow training structures designed and installed on the river bed to modify the near-bed flow pattern and redistribute flow and sediment transport within the channel cross section. The structures are laid out so they create and maintain a flow and bed topography that is consistent with that of a stable channel creating optimum conditions for managing the river. A relatively new technology, submerged vanes are a low-impact method for restoring river banks, stabilizing or re-meandering river reaches previously modified (straightened) by humans, increasing flood flow capacity, reducing sediment deposits, and for helping maintain or enhance the ecosystem in and around rivers. Following laboratory research and feedback from field installations, guidelines are now available for designs that are effective and sustainable. Several field installations have been in place for a substantial length of time. The experience from these installations is summarized. The experience has been used not only to update the existing design guidelines but also to suggest new areas of application, which are indicated. It follows that vanes are an attractive technology for stabilizing and managing streams of all sizes ranging from small creeks to large, braided rivers.
Year: 2013