Stream Restoration and Streambank Protection Using Soil Bioengineering Measures in Massachusetts

The technical paper outlines the planning process, design, construction, and post site evaluation of soil bioengineering measures used for stream restoration and streambank protection. The planning process involved several meetings with the landowner and representatives from town, state, and federal agencies to develop alternatives for the project and select the final measures. The soil bioengineering measures included stabilizing the toe of the streambank with combinations of rocks, logs, and root wads; protecting the upper bank with live stakes, brushlayers, plantings, and geotextile fabric; and installing stream deflectors. One project was installed under a formal contract with a bid schedule and construction inspection, and the other project was installed under the supervision of the designer using rental equipment. The projects have been installed for over a year and are holding up well.