Dr. Dan Scott is a Senior Geomorphologist at Watershed Science and Engineering and a Research Scientist at Colorado State University. His research focuses on how wood and sediment dynamics shape streams and uses a combination of field data collection, remote sensing, and statistical analyses. With these tools and his knowledge of fluvial processes, he helps to develop the context and understanding that are key to solving complex river management challenges. To bridge the gap between academic research and river management practice, Dan applies novel research methods to address clients’ needs and works to improve the science of sustainable river management. Dan holds a PhD from Colorado State University and previously worked as a research scientist at the University of Washington.
Abstract
Understanding the Wood Regime to Support Stream Management
Wood in river corridors modulates how water and sediment move through the riverscape, altering geomorphic processes, habitat, and risks to infrastructure. The wood regime is a comprehensive framework for describing how wood moves through and affects river networks. By understanding the wood regime, stream managers can target the root causes of lacking riverscape function, more accurately assess fluvial hazards, and sustainably restore the benefits that wood can provide to the riverscape. This talk presents the conceptual framework of wood equilibrium, which describes the relationship between wood storage capacity and actual wood storage. Using this concept to interpret measurements of wood storage, recruitment, and transport (i.e., the wood regime) can indicate the cause of variability in wood load throughout a river segment. These insights can then guide wood restoration and expectations for future wood management.