Research Idea Details

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Impact of Highways Systems on Streams

Research Idea Scope

Document hydrologic and hydraulic impacts of existing highway systems on nearby streams.  Using 10 impacted streams in geographically diverse ecosystems, evaluate the runoff generated from a highway system and the changes that can be attributed to the runoff.

Urgency and Payoff

Although most communities require stormwater detention to decrease peak flowrates, it is uncommon for highway systems to implement similar hydrologic features.  The impact on streams can be significant (scour, stream bank collapse, removal and cover of benthic layers) with subsequent degradation of stream quality.

Suggested By:
Findlay G. Edwards, Ph.D., P.E., University of Arkansas
Submitted:
03/26/2009