Computer Simulated Migration of Meandering Rivers in Minnesota

Abstract

In the present work, a computer model for simulation of the migration of meandering rivers, developed by Beck [1985a], was applied to four rivers in the State of Minnesota. The computer model is based on a theoretical approach developed by Ikeda, Parker, and Sawai [1981]. The major objective was to evaluate the overall performance of the computer model and to estimate the rates of river migration in Minnesota. By using the model to analysis the past history of the four rivers, it was found that the model is able to reproduce the past river migration but needs considerable calibration. In all the case studies it was necessary to increase the dimensionless friction factor, Cf considerably. In all the study areas the rivers flow alternately through forested and non-forested areas. It was found that the rivers typically eroded about two times faster thtough non-forested areas than through forested areas. This result is of some interest, especially in agricultural areas. It indicates the importance of having a grove of trees lining the river instead of farming all the way to the river bank.