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Geomorphic and hydrologic study of peak-flow management on the Cedar River, Washington

Open-File Report 2012-1240
Prepared in cooperation with Seattle Public Utilities
By: , , , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr20121240

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Abstract

Assessing the linkages between high-flow events, geomorphic response, and effects on stream ecology is critical to river management. High flows on the gravel-bedded Cedar River in Washington are important to the geomorphic function of the river; however, high flows can deleteriously affect salmon embryos incubating in streambed gravels. A geomorphic analysis of the Cedar River showed evidence of historical changes in river form over time and quantified the effects of anthropogenic alterations to the river corridor. Field measurements with accelerometer scour monitors buried in the streambed provided insight into the depth and timing of streambed scour during high-flow events. Combined with a two-dimensional hydrodynamic model, the recorded accelerometer disturbances allowed the prediction of streambed disturbance at the burial depth of Chinook and sockeye salmon egg pockets for different peak discharges. Insight gained from these analyses led to the development of suggested monitoring metrics for an ongoing geomorphic monitoring program on the Cedar River.

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Geomorphic and hydrologic study of peak-flow management on the Cedar River, Washington
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2012-1240
DOI 10.3133/ofr20121240
Year Published 2012
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Washington Water Science Center
Description Report: iv, 4p.; Slide Presentation: 61 p.
Country United States
State Washington
City Renton
Other Geospatial Cedar River;Chester Morse Lake
Additional Online Files (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details