METHODS FOR ASSESSMENT OF STREAM-RELATED HAZARDS OF HIGHWAYS AND BRIDGES

River behavior at a highway crossing depends not only on the stability of that particular river reach, but also on the behavior of the entire fluvial system of which it is a part. Rivers are complex landforms. A simple and straight forward approach to the identification of river hazards is not always possible. A complete evaluation of hydraulic hazards cannot be solely based on on-site hydrologic, hydraulic and geomorphic factors; but must also include insight into historic trends, synoptic consideration of basin characteristics, and anticipation of future changes. Because determination of stream-related hazards is a complex task it is beneficial to generalize relative stability based on stream type. Streams can be divided into five types based on channel pattern and mode of sediment transport. Each stream type exhibits its own characteristic stability. Detailed evaluation involves consideration of many variables. After evaluating stream variables a list of potential stream hazards can be developed. Each potential hazard can be evaluated on an individual basis and properly considered in either the design of a new crossing or maintenance of an existing one. Numerous evaluation methods are available to hydraulic engineers that have not been fully utilized. To assess hydraulic hazards at a crossing it is necessary to understand the past, examine the present, and anticipate the future. Methods such as remote sensing, land use evaluation and slope stability analysis should not be overlooked. (FHWA)

• Record URL:
  https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/54241
• Record URL:
  https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/25315
• Corporate Authors:

  Colorado State University, Fort Collins

  Engineering Research Center
  Fort Collins, CO  United States  80523

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Shen, H W
  • Schumm, S A
  • NELSON, J D
  • Doehring, D O
  • Skinner, M M
  • Smith, G L
• Publication Date: 1981-3

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Pagination: 252 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Assessments; Bridges; Hazardous materials; Highways; Hydraulics; Identification systems; Land use; Remote sensing; River basins; Rivers; Sedimentation; Slope stability; Stability analysis; Streams
• Uncontrolled Terms: Identification
• Old TRIS Terms: Channels; Land use effects
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Finance; Highways; Hydraulics and Hydrology; I26: Water Run-off - Freeze-thaw;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00335586
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA-RD-80-160 Final Rpt., FCP 35H1-062
• Files: NTL, TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Nov 23 1981 12:00AM