City of Duluth Geomorphology, Study of June 2012 Flooding
Duluth area streams received over 10 inches of rainfall on June 19 and June 20, 2012. This "500 year event" provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to further understand sediment movement and stream channel alterations due to an event of this magnitude. This project will compare 2003/2004 geomorphological data sets from several City of Duluth streams to additional geomorphological data sets collected in 2013/2014, determine channel adjustments and movement of stream bank or bed materials, utilize LiDAR to refine stream channel classifications, and make watershed management recommendations. In addition, two presentations of findings will be conducted with the MPCA, MN DNR, and City of Duluth staff to share discoveries. A capstone final report will be developed, published, and displayed on MPCA and USGS Web sites.
MPCA and local partners, including the South St. Louis Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), the City of Duluth, and Minnesota DNR will use the findings from the project to address better trans-boundary coordination with clear objectives, roles and responsibilities, and understanding of sediment movement issues. As a result, agency staff and local partners will be able to progress to stressor identification work in the area. Ultimately, local watershed management planning in the City of Duluth will be more cost-effective, efficient, and coordination with state agencies. All parties will have a firm understanding as to the impacts of sediment movement in a 500 year flood event.