ABSTRACT
Braided rivers are very dynamic systems which have complex controls over their planform and flow dynamics. Vegetation is an important influence affecting the channel geometry and pattern. However, its effect is uncertain, with multiple previous field based, flume based and numerical modelling studies having been carried out. Previous research in this field has been contradictory; with Gran & Paola (2001) finding that increasing vegetation density decreased the number of active channels. In contrast, Coulthard (2005) observed that as vegetation become denser there was an increase in the number of channels. This was hypothesized to be caused by flow separation around vegetation and the development of bars immediately downstream of the plant. Understanding the effect of vegetation in these highly dynamic systems has multiple consequences for human activity and management. For example, increasing/decreasing channel stability for economic growth/infrastructure on floodplain, flood hazards, and ecological/habitat impacts.
