Research for River Regulation Dike Design

The investigation is conducted to determine factors affecting the performance of dikes used for the regulation and improvement of alluvial streams and to develop parameters for use in the design of dikes and dike systems. A laboratory stream having the characteristics of problem reaches in alluvial streams is being used for the investigation. The model stream has a sand bed with banks constructed of gravel; the alinement of the banks can be modified to permit the development of conditions required for the study. Tests have been made to determine the effects of crest elevation and profile, relative elevation of each structure in a system and angle of the dikes. Results indicate some of the factors which should be considered in design. The investigation has led to the development of a system for determining the relative effectiveness of the various dike systems. The system considers controlling depth, channel alinement, reduction in dredging, deposition within dike systems, and scour.