Floodplain Gravel Mine Restoration: Peril or Opportunity?

摘要

Gravel mining on floodplains in the Pacific Northwest has significant implications for adverse impacts to anadromous fish species. Channel migration and avulsion, in the short- and long-term, is a major concern associated with floodplain gravel pit developments. Understanding the geomorphic characteristics of a proposed project site is necessary to characterize the risk associated with channel migration and avulsion impacts and to define appropriate mitigation measures. For a proposed gravel mine expansion in southwest Washington State a comprehensive geomorphic investigation was conducted to define the channel migration zone in the vicinity of the project, the risk of channel avulsion, and potential environmental impacts. The incorporation of appropriate reclamation features and conservation measures creates opportunities to maintain and restore properly functioning ecological conditions for threatened and endangered species.