Date of Award

Spring 8-1-1999

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Geography, Geology, and Anthropology

First Advisor

Susan M. Berta

Second Advisor

Paul Mausel

Third Advisor

Marshall E. Parks

Abstract

Recent understanding and concern with wetland environments has resulted in an increase in restoration and creation projects aimed at replicating these ecosystems. The unique characteristics within wetland environments result in different controls on streams traversing these areas, yet little research has been conducted to determine whether the morphology of these streams differs from streams in non-wetland, alluvial environments. Wetland streams from three different physiographic regions of the U.S. are compared to four morphological models and 12 additional features cited as typical in non-wetland streams. Analysis of this comparison will aid in determining whether wetland streams have differing morphology and which features show variation. Results indicate these wetland streams have different morphological features including the relationship between sinuosity (P), form ratio (F), and weighted mean percent silt and clay (M), inconsistent channel width, irregular bend cross sectional shape, variation in pools and rifiles, and atypical thalweg locations. Based upon these results and field observations, preliminary design considerations are offered for future wetland stream designs.

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