Employing the use of flexible engineering approaches as a bank erosion mitigation technique on the Nicola River in the Thompson Okanagan region

Rivers naturally shift and move through lateral erosion and deposition, which can cause problems for infrastructure that is built on riverbanks. Traditional engineering solutions have entirely halted lateral movement, which can have negative consequences. This research is investigating an alternative method, which uses grains that are within the grain size distribution of the riverbed, rather than the method known as riprap, which are much larger grains. This research will use a flume to model the Nicola River, alongside computer models. If successful, Kerr Wood Leidal will use the flexible engineering approach to stabilize the channel and minimize further bank erosion.

Faculty Supervisor:

Brett Eaton

Student:

Deanna Shrimpton

Partner:

Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.

Discipline:

Geography / Geology / Earth science

Sector:

Environmental industry

University:

Program: