Notched Closure Structures

Side Channels are not used for navigation, but are valuable environmental areas. Traditionally, these side channels were closed with rock structures to divert the flow into the main channel. While improving navigation, this process tends to fill the side channels with sediment and convert aquatic habitat to terrestrial habitat.

Notching a closure structure tends to keep the side channels from being filled with sedimentation. These structures form areas of deep water and shallow water creating a diversity of habitat, attracting different species of fish. (Drawing illustrates environments).