Design Methods for In-Stream Flow Control Structures

This report presents design guidelines for in-stream flow control structures that are often used to limit lateral migration and reduce bank erosion. The guidelines include a description of conditions under which in-stream flow control structures are either successful or not effective in providing protection against erosion and scour and in performing applicable habitat restoration functions. Unlike rip-rap, which strengthens the bank to withstand the applied hydrodynamic forces, in-stream flow control structures alter the stream-flow patterns to shift the high-velocity thread away from the bank. This report will be valuable to hydraulic engineers by facilitating the use of an alternative method to reduce stream-bank erosion and scour.