Sediment Characterization and Transport in Colusa Basin Drain

Suspended sediment is characterized in the lower reaches of the Colusa Basin Drain. Three categories of suspended sediment are identified: mineral sediment, algae, and organic matter. Field data are used to develop functional relations and the rating curves between suspended sediment and parameters such as flow rates, current velocities, and depths. Physicochemical and biological factors controlling the transport, deposition, and resuspension of suspended sediment are presented. Suspended sediment sampled from the drain was composed of about 30% organic matter, 10% suspended algae and 60% mineral sediment.