Improving Colorado Mountain Highway Culvert Stream Crossings for Trout Passage
Date of Award
3-16-2009
Document Type
Undergraduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Master of Applied Science
Organizational Unit
University College, Environmental Policy and Management
Disciplines
Environmental Policy & Mgmt
First Advisor
William Robinson
Keywords
CDOT, Colorado Department of Transportation, Culvert, Fish, Geomorphology, Habitat, Highway, Hydrology, Passage, Stream
Abstract
Highways can be effective barriers to animal migration. Where highways cross over streams, a passageway, typically a culvert, not designed for fish access can cut off an organism from miles of habitat. Traditional methods of culvert design, to convey floodwaters, reduced access to aquatic and riparian range. The Colorado Department of Transportation likely has numerous culverts that restrict aquatic passage. This paper provides guidance to CDOT for assessment of stream geomorphic conditions affecting culvert performance for fish passage, understanding aquatic organism habitat requirements, and incorporating ecological parameters into culvert designs that benefit fish and other organisms. A case study illustrates culvert problems in a difficult geomorphic setting including a fish passage assessment to evaluate stream stability for long-term culvert reliability.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Recommended Citation
Clark, Craig, "Improving Colorado Mountain Highway Culvert Stream Crossings for Trout Passage" (2009). University College: Environmental Policy and Management Capstones. 48.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/ucol_epm/48