Author(s): Dana Mcdonald; Femi Ade; Les Sawatsky; Christos Katopodis
Linked Author(s): Christos Katopodis, Femi Ade
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: The geomorphic approach to sustainable closure channel design is becoming more favourable in comparison to the more traditional structural approach. One means of applying the geomorphic approach is through generation of region-specific regime relationships. Regime relationships for bankfull width, bankfull depth and sinuosity as a function of bankfull discharge were developed based on a local dataset from the Athabasca Oil Sands Region (OSR). The associated coefficients and exponents of the derived regime equations compare to published values, but differences are notable. The resulting derived equations can be used to replicate the specific stream morphology and observed variability of natural streams in the OSR. In combination with the regime relationships, additional recommendations for meander belt width, meander wavelength and channel slope can be used to design channels for reclaimed landscapes. This paper presents region-specific regime relationships and recommendations for channel design for mine closure and reclamation.
Year: 2009