Exploration and rehabilitation of hydraulic habitats in streams using principles of fluvial behaviour

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Abstract
SUMMARY: The combination of elements from geomorphology, open‐channel hydraulics, and hydraulic habitat requirements of stream fish forms the basis for an ecologically sound ‘soft engineering’ of river channels. Interpreting and mapping the hydraulic geometry of streams and locally varied flow conditions can be accomplished with plane table surveys and customized field‐data sheets. This information can serve to manage hydraulic habitats preferred by fish. The use of fluvial characteristics to design preferred hydraulic habitats is illustrated in two examples: (i) a walleye (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum Mitchill) spawning rehabilitation project undertaken in a stream channelized as a lowland drainage canal, and (ii) a trout (Salvelinus fontinalis Mitchill and Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) habitat‐enhancement project to create additional holding and resting areas for adult fish in a stream paved with glacially deposited boulders modified by a road crossing. In both examples the ‘soft engineering’ of the river channels enhanced the hydraulic fish habitat.

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