Topic outline

  • Channel Alignment and Variability Design

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) publication titled "Channel Alignment and Variability Design" discusses the importance of designing stable channel planforms for open channel design. The publication highlights the fact that natural channels are rarely perfectly linear and straight, and that the assessment and design of a stable channel planform is an important part of any open channel design. The publication describes planform design parameters, including the meander wavelength, radius of curvature, sinuosity, and general alignment, and presents several techniques that can be used to approximate natural channel alignments.

    The publication also discusses the variability of natural channel cross sections and the importance of incorporating similar variability into the design of a natural channel restoration project. Generalized morphologic relationships for channel variability in streams and rivers are described in the publication, along with material from regionally specific studies for illustration. Overall, the publication provides useful information for professionals involved in the design and assessment of natural channel restoration projects.

    Topics:

    • Introduction
    • Natural Channel Variability
    • Planform Design Parameters
    • Approximating Natural Channel Alignments
    • Variability in Channel Cross Sections
    •  Incorporating Variability into Restoration Design
    • Summary and References

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for environmental, civil, hydraulic, geotechnical, and other engineering professionals whose job description may require a general knowledge of the alignment and variability of streams and rivers.
    Publication Source: USDA NRCS

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1