TRACK 2, DAY 1
Natural Channel Design Monitoring – Well-Established Methods vs. Innovative Tools
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | 3:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. | Hall F
ABSTRACT
Post-construction channel monitoring to date has relied upon well-established methods including cross sections, bathymetric channel profile surveys, fixed point photography, and standardized methods for assessing the quality of stream habitats and monitoring fish populations.
Minimal changes to plan and profile have occurred over the duration of the monitoring exercise and fish populations have become re-established.
This presentation will focus on lessons learned using well-established methods and will explore new tools that could be implemented in future projects.
This will include a discussion on the possible use of AI, drones, and a series of apps that could be implemented in future construction monitoring programs to improve or refine the post-construction monitoring process. Pros and cons of each tool will be explored in detail.
A critical aspect of stream restoration and natural channel design is the consideration of aquatic ecosystems, particularly fish populations and their habitats. Monitoring fish populations is essential to gauge the success of stream restoration projects and ensure the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.
Attention will be given to the impact of these tools on the channel itself, as well as the impact on ecological health of the restored stream, compared to traditional monitoring techniques.
This presentation will discuss how new monitoring technologies could better support post-construction monitoring and fisheries assessments, improve fish habitat restoration efforts, and integrate considerations into future designs.
ABOUT THE PRESENTERS
Kathy Robitaille-Feick, AECOM
Ms. Robitaille-Feick is a fluvial geomorphologist registered with the PGO. She has over eight years of project experience, including experience working on Fluvial Geomorphology assessments and reports.
She has worked on various geomorphological and erosion assessment projects, which are used to quantify erosion rates and provide geomorphological input in order to mitigate potential negative impacts on long term stream form and function.
Ms. Robitaille-Feick has experience working on various fluvial geomorphology assessments and reports, including meander belt assessments, erosion assessments, and assisting with channel design reporting.
She also has over six years of experience working on various projects for the exploration and mining sectors.
Brandon Smelt, AECOM
Mr. Smelt is a dedicated Marine and Freshwater Biology graduate with a robust background in aquatic ecology and a deep passion for environmental conservation.
He excels in research, data analysis, and implementing aquatic monitoring techniques such as fish community and water quality monitoring to understand ecosystem impacts.
Mr. Smelt has drafted various fisheries assessments and reports, and conducted fieldwork focusing on fish habitat, fish community, and unionid community surveys.
He has expertise in provincial and federal legislation and regulations, including the Conservation Authorities Act (1990), Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (1997), Endangered Species Act (2007), Fisheries Act (1985), and Species at Risk Act (2002).