Distributary configuration effects on delta sediment deposition
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Distributary reconnection is an emerging restoration strategy designed to increase the ability of fish to distribute among delta habitats, and to improve transport of sediment among tidal wetlands. Where fluvial channels are oversized for their flow, river sediment accumulates. Large wood may lodge in the sediment, resulting in more sediment deposition and a feedback loop which closes distributary channels in excess of a rivers capacity to maintain.
River flows may be regulated by our infrastructure, and discharge is anticipated to change with global climate change. At this time we have not basis for defining a distributary restoration target that is based on a prediction of the number and size of channels that a river delta can naturally sustain over time.
Delta Strategy Analysis
Delta Strategy Analysis
The uncertainties in how this topic affects delta restoration has resulted in its inclusion in the ESRP River Delta Adaptive Management Strategy. This three criteria analysis should build off the analysis above, and supports development of learning projects.The uncertainty of this topic has resulted in its inclusion in the ESRP delta restoration adaptive management strategy. The following analysis supports decision making.
| Importance | Viability | Policy Relevance |
|---|---|---|
|
We are not faced with a large number of urgent distributary restoration actions, however we anticipate that in the larger Snohomish, Nooksack, Stillaguamish, and Snohomish deltas, understanding of distributary connectivity is part of the restoration analysis. |
There are limited opportunities for experimental verification of distributary formation and maintenance. This may be largely a modeling exercise, better allocated to individual project feasibility study within specific systems. |
Definition of a target distributary state that maximizes performance and resilience of a river delta is a significant policy decision that frames planning, acquisition , and negotiation with stakeholders, as well as the location and scope of future project work. |
