GM5.3

Large wood (LW), driftwood, or instream wood is a key component of fluvial ecosystems and affects both flow and sediment transport processes. LW jams or logjams may be installed as a tool for river restoration to increase flow heterogeneity and alter bed morphology. Regions of slower, deepened water established upstream of LW jams may enable deposition and storage of nutrients. Regions of faster flow created as flow diverges around LW jams may increase transport of bedload and aid flushing of fine particles from clogged gravels. During floods, the amount of transported LW may significantly increase and LW jams can form at river infrastructure, increasing upstream water depth and creating an additional flood risk. A cross-disciplinary effort is required to improve our understanding of the complex interactions of wood with flow and sediment in fluvial ecosystems (rivers and streams).

This session aims for a broad representation of the scientific communities focusing on hydraulic, ecological, geomorphic, and human aspects associated with LW in fluvial ecosystems. We invite presenters to share recent scientific advancements in our understanding and management of wood in fluvial ecosystems using field, laboratory, or numerical approaches.