The case of the shrinking channels; the North Platte and Platte rivers in Nebraska

Circular 781
By:

Links

Abstract

Since the latter part of the 19th century, channels of North Platte and Platte Rivers in western and central Nebraska have changed considerably. In the 365-km reach from Minatare to Overton, the channel by 2969 ws only about 0.1-0.2 as wide in 1865. The 1969 channel for this reach was less braided and slightly more sinuous than the 1938 channel. (No data are available for braiding and sinuosity prior to 1938.) From Overton to lGrand Island the 1969 channel was about o.6-0.7 as wide as in 1865, and various changes in braiding and sinuosity took place between 1938 and 1969. The decreases in channel width are related to decreases in water discharge. Such flow reductions have resulted primarily from regulating effects of major upstream dams and greater use of the river water. Much of the former river channel is now overgrown with vegetation. (Woodard-USGS)
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title The case of the shrinking channels; the North Platte and Platte rivers in Nebraska
Series title Circular
Series number 781
DOI 10.3133/cir781
Edition -
Year Published 1978
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey,
Description iv, 48 p. : ill., maps ;27 cm.
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details