
We conducted a channel stability assessment and used repeat ground photography to evaluate the condition of restored and present �natural� reaches of Waller Creek and Tannehill Branch. The �natural� reaches served as ergodic surrogates for temporal channel development of the restored reaches. Variables of channel morphology analyzed included riparian vegetation cover, vertical stability, scour/deposition potential, and bed sediment composition. From our analysis, restoration enlarged stream channels, decreased bank height ratios and reduced flood prone width. Bed sediment analysis suggested that pools contain a higher percentage of fines whereas riffles sediments are coarser in restored reaches than pre-restoration reaches. Visual examination of ground photographs and the Pfankuch channel stability evaluation indicate that restoration increased vegetative cover and deposition. Thus, restoration efforts had a positive impact on these two streams. Data from channel stability assessments provide the basis upon which longer-term monitoring and evaluation can be conducted. Knowledge gained from long-term monitoring is important for improving the effectiveness of current and future restoration projects.
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