The science of natural channel design continues to evolve and the knowledge and tools to move into a new era of stream management are at hand. It is increasingly accepted that a natural channel design is an effective, efficient, and stable method of controlling flows, maintaining healthy streams, and ultimately protecting life and property in a watershed.

Conference Participants List (PDF)

Background of the Conference

In November 2001, we held the very well received Conference on The Emerging Science of Natural Channel Design. More than 300 people attended this conference and the satisfaction level of the participants was extremely high. Annually, for the past few years the Water Resources Research Institute at North Carolina State University has hosted at least one Fall conference or workshop relating to stream health or floodplain management. Starting in 2003, we will alternate years in which each institution hosts a Fall stream conference.

Conference Goals

• Enhance the capabilities of professionals engaged in natural channel design.
• Expand the understanding of stable stream processes and incorporation of stream morphology into water resource management.
• Have leading national experts provide cutting-edge knowledge on theory, methods, and tools that will aid in maintaining or developing self-sustaining high quality stream systems.
• Through workshops, provide knowledge and training that will better position participants to protect and enhance water resources particularly in the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basin Regions.

Who Should Attend

Professionals engaged in the theory and application of natural channel design, including but not limited to:

• Local, state and federal government agency staff
• Engineers
• Stream and watershed scientists
• Science and engineering students and faculty

Agenda

Workshops on a range of topics, such as geomorphology and environmental impacts on streams, will be held on October 6. Conference sessions lead by internationally renowned experts will begin on October 7.

Session Abstracts

Read abstracts from technical presentations during the conference. click here to view the poster session abstracts.

Conference Site and Hotel Accommodations

The conference will be held at the University Plaza Hotel located at 3110 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202. When making your reservation specify that you are attending the STREAMS Conference to receive the special rate of $87.00 plus tax. The deadline to make your reservation and receive the special rate is September 15, 2003. Contact the hotel directly at (614) 267-7461 or toll free at 1 (877) 677-5292. Visit the hotel web site at: http://www.universityplazaosu.com/