Rivers Edge

At Rivers Edge, L4 Environmental and Otak had the opportunity to provide a very different design approach from the reach directly above (?). One of the values L4 shares with design engineers like Otak is the importance of recreating a natural aesthetic that supports the natural processes of the river and related ecosystems. This project was the design of Otak engineers, and the experience of L4 riverine operators made for a very efficient and collaborative finished outcome.

As you will see in the images, flow control is done with a more natural and less restricting placement of boulders than some other design styles. The intention is to create a natural look, allow the river to naturally seat the boulders to create the drop structures and give the river some resilience and flexibility as flow levels change throughout the year. The results is a restoration project that is indistinguishable from a naturally-formed river channel. Allowing the river to make the final adjustments is a partnership with nature. We made suggestions, but the river will make the micro-adjustments that serve its needs over time.

To finish off the project, L4 provided free topsoil and reshaped the banks that were once covered with cobble to create a beautiful viewshed for adjacent property owners and a cozy place for wildlife to relax.