Spatial Distribution of the Bankfull Discharge Recurrence Interval in Southeastern USA

Abstract Submission: Stream restoration practitioners use a wide variety of hydrology tools and refer to multiple databases to determine accurate watershed and stream characteristics required for site assessment and restoration projects. A study evaluates whether pertinent information on Regional Curves and stream frequency flows could be combined to provide practical guidance on determining design peak flow discharges for streams in the Southeastern US. This study's findings could significantly impact how restoration projects are approached. Specific information from the sites used to develop the Regional Curves of Ecoregions within the Southeastern US was collected from different sources. Streamflow frequency curves and bank full characteristics were determined using free online tools such as USGS StreamStats and WikiWatersheds. The recurrence interval associated with the bank full discharge predicted by the Regional Curve was determined for each site in each Ecoregion. The spatial variability of the frequency estimates aligns with the Ecoregion distribution in the study area. Findings could bring an alternative procedure to support stream restoration designs.

Learning Objectives/Expected Outcome (Optional) :