Key terms
Surface water
Any waterway that is above ground, including streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands and man-made reservoirs.
Fluvial Geomorphology
The study of the interaction between flowing water and the earth. “Fluvial” refers to anything related to rivers and streams, including the movement of water and sediment, and the formation of features caused by river activity. “Geomorphology” is the study of the earth’s surface and the processes that shape it, such as erosion, weathering and landforms.
Why study water?
Exploring how water moves in lakes, rivers and streams is important for protecting ecosystems, wildlife and infrastructure. Alto planners will consider ecology, bridge and culvert design and surface water. All elements must be considered together to protect the movement of the channel, crossing structures, aquatic habitat and aquatic species.
Additionally, studying stormwater quality and runoff will help planners understand, identify and address pollutants and water flow that can compromise ecosystems, public health and water resources. Studying surface water and river/stream flow will help guide the design, construction and operation of the project and determine a baseline for future studies.
What do water studies involve?
Water studies involve establishing present conditions and identifying and describing those conditions. Ultimately, Alto planners will use the information collected to determine how the conditions may change as a result of the project and develop measures to avoid or reduce potential negative effects. These studies involve:
- documenting water levels and flow measurements and reviewing waterway dimensions, vegetation, bed materials (ground at the bottom of water bodies) and floodplains
- identifying and describing the water and land conditions near waterways
- assessing potential pollutants, contaminants, sediment and nutrients, to protect water quality from storm runoff
- studying how the surface water and land conditions near waterways may change as a result of the project
- developing measures to avoid or minimize potential negative effects
