DELAWARE RIVER BASIN COMMISSION

Sediment

Excessive sediment buildup along a stream bottom occurs from bank erosion, channel scouring, or excessive overland flow runoff. In undisturbed watersheds, supplies of sediment enter and move through a watercourse. Part of the natural process, there is no need for concern. However, if sediment supplies increase significantly, problems arise, particularly when a water body becomes no longer capable of maintaining its sediment transport capabilities. Excessive sediment deposited in a stream channel smothers benthic life, a key link of a healthy food chain. Loss of reservoir storage is accelerated. Turbidity becomes more pronounced in wet weather flows. Mudflats deteriorate recreational enjoyment.

View looking down from a retaining wall, Assunpink Creek, Lawrence Township, Mercer County, NJ. Silt, a ruptured drum, a tire, and other debris share the stream bottom's landscape.

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