At the request and support of the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), the Channel & Watershed Processes Research Unit, National Sedimentation Laboratory embarked on a 90-day study of sediment loadings in James Creek, Monroe County, Mississippi. The principal objective of the study was to determine "actual" sediment-transport rates and rates for similar, but stable or unimpaired ("reference") streams by which MDEQ could develop water-quality targets for sediment. Without historical sediment-transport data for James Creek a combination of methods were used including empirical analysis of historic data from other sites, field reconnaissance and detailed data collection and surveying, and numerical modeling of uplands and channels. Results of this study indicate that a significant proportion of the sediment in the James Creek watershed emanates from stream channels. Subsequent decisions regarding reducing sediment loadings will need to pay particular attention to stream-channel processes and stabilizing eroding reaches and tributaries of James Creek.The report describing the project can be obtained at the following link:

NSL Report 31

Dr. Carlos V. Alonso