Evaluation and Assessment of Environmentally Sensitive Stream Bank Protection Measures

Abstract

This report evaluates and assesses existing guidelines for the design, installation, monitoring, and maintenance of environmentally sensitive stream bank stabilization and protection measures, and develops quantitative engineering design guidance for selected treatments. Updated design guidelines for three widely used treatments are presented: live siltation and live staking with a rock toe, vegetated mechanically stabilized earth, and vegetated rip rap. For the engineer involved in the multidisciplinary design of an environmentally sensitive treatment, this report also includes current guidance from the Federal Highway Administration on the use of biotechnical treatments in proximity to transportation infrastructure. In addition, for the Professional Engineer (PE) on a design team, the report explores aspects of professional liability in environmentally sensitive design.