Stream Simulation Design Method

The Stream Simulation Design method is a design process that is intended to mimic the natural stream processes within a culvert.  Fish passage, sediment transport, flood and debris conveyance within the culvert are intended to function as they would in a natural channel.

Determination of the high and low fish passage design flows, water velocity, and water depth is not required for this option since the stream hydraulic characteristics within the culvert are designed to mimic the stream conditions upstream and downstream of the crossing.

The structures for this design method are typically open bottomed arches or boxes but could have buried floors in some cases.  These culverts contain a streambed mixture that is similar to the adjacent stream channel.  Stream simulation culverts require a greater level of information on hydrology and geomorphology (topography of the stream channel) and a higher level of engineering expertise.

Click here to download the Adobe pdf file " GUIDELINES FOR SALMONID PASSAGE AT STREAM CROSSINGS" that discusses this method of fish passage.