Flow structure and channel change in a sinuous grass‐lined stream within an agricultural drainage ditch: Implications for ditch stability and aquatic habitat

Abstract

AbstractMany drainage ditches in the Midwest have developed a geomorphological configuration characterized by vegetated bars, or benches, on the bottom of the ditch and a stream flowing within a channel inset into these bars or benches. Past work has focused on the sedimentology of the benches and the depositional processes involved in bench development. This study investigates the three‐dimensional flow structure and short‐term channel change in a small grass‐lined stream flanked by benches at the bottom of an agricultural drainage ditch in east central Illinois, USA. In particular, it focuses on the influence of channel curvature and bank vegetation on flow through the inset channel at two different stages and explores how the structure of the flow is related to documented patterns of channel change. Results indicate that the mean flow is characterized by a submerged high‐velocity core that mainly is confined to the centre of the channel by near‐bank zones of flow stagnation/separation induced by abrupt changes in channel alignment and by strong frictional effects of grasses extending into the flow along the channel margins. Where the high‐velocity core is close to the channel margins, minor erosional adjustments of the inset channel can occur in the form of bank erosion. Patterns of turbulence kinetic energy reflect the development of shear layers near the channel margins and surrounding the submerged high‐velocity core. Locations with strong turbulence also correspond to locations of minor bank erosion. The results indicate that the inset channel is a relatively stable feature, especially where the alignment of this channel is straight, but that erosion‐control treatments may be necessary locally where the inset channel impinges on the ditch bank. Although the development of benches, a geomorphic response to ditch maintenance, is commonly viewed as a threat to drainage efficacy, preserving or constructing benches and associated inset channels in drainage ditches can enhance aquatic habitat and water quality. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.