Stream classification and gravel-bar inventory for Buffalo National River and Ozark National Scenic Riverways

First posted February 4, 2021 For additional information, contact: Director, Columbia Environmental Research CenterU.S. Geological Survey4200 New Haven RoadColumbia, MO 6520 The data summarized in this report provide a baseline characterization of the physical attributes riverine ecosystems two landscapes managed by National Park Service—Ozark Scenic Riverways, Missouri, and Buffalo River, Arkansas—to inform understanding management aquatic habitat. study utilized basin-scale approach consisted components: channel classification longitudinal inventory gravel bars. We evaluated Jacks Fork Current River Ozark Riverways main stem River. primary objective was to characterize geomorphic patterns that affect stability rates change both national park units. Findings may be used distribution availability habitat.For classification, we performed exploratory statistical analyses using nine variables (channel width, standard deviation valley distance wall, confinement, bar area, bluff braid index, sinuosity). Each metric quantified along length river system at 200-meter intervals. then cluster analysis for each subset variables, resulting 2 5 distinct classes depending on criteria determining number clusters. Longitudinal clusters vary but reflect combination landscape factors including influence tributaries, lithology, which habitat.We developed bars quantifying area from series imagery park. In analyzed five time periods, with earliest being 1992 most recent 2014. also aerial imagery, ranging 1982 2013. indicated general decrease storage upstream reaches evaluated, accompanied increase farther downstream. Local gravel-bar are associated setting, such as geometry depositional sediment reach scale.