Projects
Riverine Processes and Ecology Program
PNNL scientists and engineers possess both the depth and breadth of expertise in the scientific underpinnings and engineering applications associated with physical processes of riverine ecosystems. Our expertise in hydrology, hydraulics, and ecology has been applied on projects throughout the western United States, particularly in the Columbia and Snake River basins and in all types of riverine ecosystems ranging from small tributaries to large mainstem rivers. We have conducted extensive research in the aquatic sciences throughout the Pacific Northwest hydropower system in support of operational management, environmental planning, mitigation and restoration requirements. We employ state-of-the-art methods, electronics, sensors and computer hardware and software in our work on life history, behavioral, physiological and physical habitat studies for many species including pacific lamprey, white sturgeon, steelhead trout and several species of Pacific salmon. The results of our studies lead to scientifically based management plans as well as mitigation, restoration and enhancement strategies.
Recent areas of emphasis include:
- habitat suitability evaluation and prediction for a variety of aquatic organisms and life-stages
- evaluation of groundwater and surface water interactions (hyporheic zone) in rivers
- integrated fluvial geomorphology and aquatic habitat evaluation.