Experimental observations of obstructions on floodplains

Abstract

The effect of placing obstructions of similar size but different shapes and at different locations on a floodplain adjacent to a meandering channel is considered. The results from the laboratory model tests show that placing a solid obstruction along some parts of a bend has a more significant effect on the upstream and downstream water levels than at other locations. The average increase in water level upstream from the obstructions is compared with the obstruction length and percentage blockage. One result using a permeable obstruction is presented and a 15% reduction in upstream water level is observed compared with a solid obstruction of the same length. The results suggest that maintenance of vegetation is more critical in some areas than in others.