ABSTRACT
The geomorphic effects of gravel extraction in the Russian River, are similar to well documented effects in other rivers in California affected by gravel extraction. Changes in channel morphology resulting from gravel extraction and related road construction are illustrated in a series of aerial photographs. Modification of the Russian River basin and changing land-use practices in the past century has altered dominant discharge, slope, width, and sediment supply. Successive topographic maps show the straightening and narrowing of the Middle Reach caused by historic land use activities. A longitudinal profile of the Middle Reach of the Russian River, surveyed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1940, provides a baseline for assessing recent channel changes. Rivers are dynamic and do not generally stay static or fixed in position over time. A river in dynamic equilibrium may adjust its width, depth, slope, and other characteristics.
