Biotechnical engineering as an alternative to traditional engineering methods: A biotechnical streambank stabilization design approach

Focus on ecologically fragile streams in the US has resulted in heightened recognition and popularity of biotechnical streambank stabilization methods. This ancient technique re-emerges in the US in response to the link between traditional protection measures and numerous occurrences of streambank failures. The purpose of this study was to investigate biotechnical engineering as a viable alternative to traditional channelization and hard-armoring methods. Primarily by literature review, this study analyzed and organized various streambank stabilization approaches in traditional engineering, fluvial geomorphological, ecological and biotechnical engineering perspectives. Strengths and weaknesses in these four perspectives are discussed, suitable biotechnical alternatives are presented, and a cost-strength matrix of biotechnical techniques is introduced.