Channel Creation/Restoration

Through either restoration of existing or creation of new stream channels, Kingfisher works with clients to provide creative solutions to building productive fisheries that are tailored to the surrounding landscape and mimic natural channel characteristics, while remaining cost effective. Kingfisher Consulting designs and constructs channels that include all the components of a fully functioning natural stream system. Kingfisher starts with a geomorphic based channel design with a focus on basin characteristics. We take into account flow regimes, appropriate sizing of channels and associated floodplain with a particular emphasis on sediment transport, and appropriate sizing of bedforms and habitat features to achieve resource goals. These systems include habitat for all life stages of fish and their food sources, imitating the complexities of a natural ecosystem. Whether restoring an existing channel or creating an entirely new system, Kingfisher focuses on creating a comprehensive channel design that supports a naturally functioning system and will be a successful fishery for years to come.

Bank Stabilization

Kingfisher works with clients to assess the severity of erosion, surrounding structures that may need to be protected and widescale impacts of stabilization to develop appropriate solutions to problem areas. Kingfisher Consulting, Inc. has undertaken numerous river and streambank restoration projects that incorporate the reestablishment of stable channel geometry to degraded stream/river systems. Our ability to design stable channels extending through several meander wavelengths ensures that we can identify discontinuities in natural channel geometry and, if necessary, prescribe appropriate measures for eroding riverbanks. Kingfisher specializes in non-traditional stabilization techniques, such as brush matrices, that provide fish habitat, willow establishment and bank protection all in one.

Fisheries Assessment

Kingfisher Consulting performs comprehensive baseline inventories at a reach, channel or watershed level to identify and describe habitat conditions. These inventories evaluate temperature, discharge and flow regime, fish and macroinvertebrate population dynamics, habitat distribution, riparian vegetation community, sediment transport regime, and land use issues, in addition to many other influences which may pertain to a specific stream. Using this information, Kingfisher will identify limiting factors, prescribe management actions and track population responses to management activities.