Stillwater Sciences specializes in developing numerical models of sediment transport to assess current conditions and assess future conditions based on potential restoration actions or land use changes. Stillwater Sciences combines our sediment transport modeling expertise with our expertise in geomorphology, aquatic ecology, and biology to assess the importance of model results on physical and ecological processes. This process results in a quantitatively based assessment of channel and associated ecological processes.

We have applied sediment routing models to evaluate the effects of such diverse activities as: dam removal (click here for publications and reports related to dam removal) mine tailings disposal dredging hydroelectric power peaking gravel augmentation forestry practices

Stillwater Sciences uses numerical modeling to perform geomorphic analyses of the effects of removing dams, and baseline studies to support restoration design, and often to predict the outcomes of various possible management options. Stillwater Sciences sediment transport models are customized to address the modeling requirements of the project. For example, our dam removal models are designed specifically to account for the abrupt change in slope at the downstream end of the reservoir deposit. Our models also require less input data than off-the-shelf models, reducing the need for extensive field studies-- often the most time-consuming and costly component of the modeling process.

Stillwater Sciences is also conducting physical modeling experiments to address some of the fundamental scientific questions underlying the river restoration strategies of gravel augmentation, dam removal, and channel-floodplain reconstruction. The insights gained from the physical modeling experiments will be used to create guidelines for restoration managers to assist the design of future gravel augmentation, dam removal, and channel-floodplain reconstruction projects. The results of the experiments will also be used to calibrate and refine numerical models to serve as tools for designing and assessing river restoration actions. Selected Stillwater Sediment Transport Models include:

• DREAM: Dam Removal Express Assessment Model, for sediment transport of non-cohesive sand/silt reservoir deposit;
• EASI model: a reach scale gravel transport model in support of river restoration activities such as gravel augmentation, channel design and flow alteration;
• Hat Sand model: developed specifically for two short sand bed reaches at Hat Creek, California; and
• Gravel and sand transport models: for evaluation of gravel and sand transport upon the removal of Marmot Dam, Sandy River, Oregon.

Stillwater Sciences' sediment routing models can also be used as stepping stones to understand the geomorphic and ecological responses to changes in sediment transport regimes. With a permanent in-house staff of ecologists, geomorphologists, hydrologic engineers, statisticians, GIS specialists and biologists, as well as our working relationships with top scientists, Stillwater is able to integrate sediment transport models with information from related disciplines. Stillwater has applied sediment routing models and integrated geomorphic and ecological assessments in a range of contexts, including studies of dam removal, river restoration planning, and mine waste disposal.

Stillwater's Sediment Transport Modeling Services include:

• Sediment source analysis
• Reach-based and cumulative effects on water quality
• Stream temperature assessments and modeling
• Stream and riparian habitat models, field assessments and monitoring
• Stream temperature source analysis
• GIS-based landslide hazard maps
• GIS-based stream temperature assessments
• Cumulative impact assessments
• Management plan impact assessments
• Technical support for agency negotiations
• Monitoring and adaptive management plans
• Watershed risk rating systems
• Protection measures for sensitive resources