Stream and Floodplain Restoration in Glen Creek, Denali National Park and Preserve

摘要

Glen Creek, in the Kantishna Hills region of Alaska's Denali National Park and Preserve, is typical of many placer-mined streams in the area. It is characterized by significant stream channel adjustments and disfunctioning riparian zones. As part of a National Park Service (NPS) long-term multi-disciplinary research effort, a hydrologic study was begun in 1990 to address the development of techniques for the stabilization and restoration of stream channels and floodplains disturbed by mining activities. The specific goal of the study was to develop restoration techniques which would (1) reduce erosion, (2) allow the stream to develop floodplains, sinuosity, and pools and riffles similar to premining conditions, and (3) minimize construction needs. Testing of stream restoration techniques took place in 1991 and 1992 along two adjacent reaches of Glen Creek totaling 1400 m in length.