Watershed Assessment of River Stability and Sediment Supply (WARSSS) Study

A Watershed Assessment of River Stability and Sediment Supply  (WARSSS) was conducted in two phases within the upper South Platte  River watershed.  

The Phase I (Reconnaissance Level) Assessment involved the  compilation of existing data about the condition of waterways, land uses and potential impacts to the watershed.  The goal of this phase was to identify sediment sources and channel stability problems linked to land  and river management activities. Through this process, potential problem areas within the larger watershed were identified for  further assessment.  

Phase II (Rapid Resource Inventory) involved a more detailed  screening that entailed inventory of the type, location, nature, and  extent of potential sediment sources, along with the erosion potential  of stream channels.

Information compiled through this study are being used to improve the effectiveness of habitat restoration projects and land management  practices by providing a summary of stream stability and sedimentation  rates throughout the upper watershed.