Real-scale Analysis of Riparian Vegetation Deformations and Flow Resistance of Vegetated Streams

The objective of this study is the comparative analysis of the main hydrodynamic traits of vegetated streams and riparian vegetation 3D bending through the processing of real-scale measurements retrieved during field hydraulic experiments in a vegetated water body colonized by young flexible riparian weeds. The structural measurements of riparian vegetation bending were carried out by employing a built-in system of micro load cell sensors, implemented during three years of Research program and calibrated in specific Laboratory Flume tests, and then installed directly on the weed flexible stems in the field in real vegetated water streams. The measurements were carried out continuously, aiming at correlating the riparian weed deformation to the complete 3D water flow field. The promising outcomes of this study represent a useful tool for the prediction of the effects of riparian vegetation in vegetated channels colonized by such a widespread riparian species like reed beds.