Assessing the efficacy of culverts designed with Aquatic Organism Passage (AOP) consideration
Focus Area
Environmental Considerations in Planning
Subcommittee
All
Status
Archived
Cost
$250k-$499k
Timeframe
2-3 years
Research Idea Scope
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has built a number of structures to facilitate Aquatic Organism Passage (AOP) over the last decade, several of which have been designed in accordance with procedures outlined in HEC 26 – Culvert Design for Aquatic Organism Passage. However, minimal follow-up research has been conducted to determine the impact of these design considerations on AOP following construction. Therefore, this project proposes to identify WisDOT structures designed with AOP considerations and assess their performance in the field. The results will be used to inform culvert design policy and procedure, and to facilitate the cost-effective design of structures that promote AOP based on observations in the field.
Urgency and Payoff
This project seeks to enhance cost-effectiveness in the design of AOP culverts. This will be accomplished by identifying successful aspects of AOP design consideration and integrating them into design guidance procedures. As a result, funding can be spent effectively to provide the greatest benefit to fish populations and fishing industry.
Submitted
06/04/2015