Stream Dynamics at Pipeline River Crossings

Pipeline crossings of streams, whether large or small, must consider the ability of the stream channel to scour its bed and erode its banks. Case studies are presented to illustrate the kinds of dynamic environments which must be considered in designing pipeline stream crossings. These characteristics may be determined through the use of comparative historical aerial photography and site photographs and surveys. The case studies presented as examples in this paper include gullies, bedrock-lined channels, entrenched meandering streams, multi-channel wandering streams, degrading channels, alluvial fans, and major channels affected by regulation and man-made structures. Natural hazards such as debris jams and beaver dams are also discussed. For each case study, the characteristics of the channels are described, the design approach discussed and site-specific constraints presented which affected the final design.