Ecosystem and Flood Risk Management Compatibility Investigation

Project Information

This research project investigates how Natural and Nature-Based Features (NNBF) have been used along the Rio Grande and its tributaries to support ecosystem restoration and flood risk management (FRM). Through case study documentation, field visits, and stakeholder engagement, the team will develop design guidance tailored to the arid Southwest. A regional geodatabase and a Design and Applications Guidance Handbook will help practitioners plan and implement NNBF effectively in fluvial systems.

Black and white aerial rendering of the Rio Grande over a cross-cut rendering of the channel with Bosque Final Surface, Present Surface, Scoured Channel and Retard-Type A and B structures placed. — Typical modifications to slow the water on the Rio Grande in the 1920s and 1930s. Shown is an example of a section of the Rio Grande near Socorro, NM illustrating the types of structures and where the structures were to be placed in the channel (Berry and Lewis 1997), Retard type A structures are brush piles weighted down with concrete anchors

Oblique aerial photo of the brown Rio Grande River during low water stretching from the upper left of the photo and spreading to the lower right with trees and grasses on both sides of the river with mountains in the back right view on a bright blue day with puffy white clouds. — Tashjian, P. (2023). “Rio Grande in New Mexico”. In “Audubon Provides Water to Albuquerque’s Rio Grande Stretch to Protect Birds, Fish, and Communities”, Audubon, https://www.audubon.org/news/audubon-provides-water-albuquerques-rio-grade-stretch-protect-birds-fish-and-communities.

Problem

The Rio Grande has experienced significant ecological degradation due to decades of development and flood control efforts. Historical approaches prioritized sediment trapping and traditional infrastructure, often at the expense of riparian health and long-term system resilience.

This project responds to Statement of Need 2119 – Ecosystem and FRM Compatibility Investigation and aligns with USACE R&D priorities to ensure environmental sustainability and accelerate decision-making. By understanding how NNBF have functioned in the region, the project will support more resilient and ecologically compatible infrastructure designs.

Solution

Research Approach

Compile a regional database of NNBF features along the Rio Grande in New Mexico
Conduct watershed-scale geomorphic analysis to assess performance and context
Evaluate selected NNBF through field visits and functional assessments
Develop a comprehensive NNBF Design and Applications Guidance Handbook
Host two technology transfer workshops to share findings and gather feedback

Expected Outcomes

A documented inventory of existing NNBF with geomorphic and hydrologic context
Field-based evaluations and design considerations for selected features
Design guidance tailored to arid Southwest fluvial systems
A regional geodatabase of NNBF for planners and designers
Technical reports, notes, and workshops for training and application

Impact

This work will equip USACE and partners with design tools and data to implement NNBF that enhance ecological diversity while supporting FRM. By streamlining planning and reducing uncertainty in site assessments, the project promotes more confident, cost-effective decision-making. Ultimately, it helps shift restoration and FRM toward EWN-aligned practices that work with natural processes and regional conditions.

Partnerships & Collaboration

Led by ERDC Coastal and Hydraulics and Environmental Labs, this project is executed in close collaboration with USACE Albuquerque District (SPA) and supported by numerous partners, including tribal nations, the Bureau of Reclamation, US Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, and NGOs such as the Hermit’s Peak Watershed Alliance. These collaborations ensure culturally informed, site-specific guidance and broad applicability of the findings.

Products

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Point of Contact

Abigail Grant

Research General Engineer

Christopher Haring, PhD, PG, CFM

Research Physical Scientist, Lead for Ewn Fluvial Chapters, Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory, ERDC

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