A Sub Watershed Analysis of Factors Influencing the Potential for Stream Channel Restoration At the Stockley Center.

Restoring a stream channel can create a more natural flow pattern, reduce erosion, provide habitat, and improve nutrient uptake. However, before a restoration project can begin, the site needs to be analyzed. The objectives of this project were to identify site constraints, quantify runoff, and develop a planting scheme for a riparian buffer. ArcGIS, Web Soil Survey, and digital aerial photographs were used to collect input data for the WinTR-55 model. The watershed and six sub watersheds were delineated using ArcPad. Using web soil survey, a soil map was developed and soil properties were obtained. Based on site specific soils data and physical features affecting runoff, runoff quantity was calculated for each sub watershed using the WinTR-55 model. Soil pH was determined using an Oakton Acorn digital pH meter. For native plant species to be included in the riparian buffer, additional criteria were examined, which included nutrient uptake and soil moisture potential; and  pH and shade tolerance. Based WinTR-55 calculations, any physical structures to be placed in the channel to reduce water velocity and erosion, must be able to withstand the volume and energy of 1.2 cubic meters per second of water from a 100 year storm event. Soil pH ranged from 5.1 to 5.6. Visual observations were used to determine the extent of shade coverage and soil moisture content potential was determined by Web Soil Survey properties. A literature review indicated that a 30 meter three tier buffer, comprised of grass and herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees, would be the most effective way to remove nutrients and increase habitat.  Based on site constraints, plant species for the buffer were determined and a recommended native species list was created.