ABSTRACT
As it is well known the plane evolution of a meander wave is especially determined by the erosion processes at the outer-bank. Cross-stream flow redistributes the main flow velocity and exerts an important role in the outer-bank stability. This work focuses on the role played by vegetation on the crosssectional motion and, thus, on the plane evolution of a meander wave. In fact, vegetation can alter flow velocity and, consequently, erosion mechanisms at the mobile boundaries. Experimental investigation has been conducted in a large amplitude meandering channel constructed at the laboratory of DICAM. The cross-stream flow over the no-vegetated and vegetated beds have been analyzed and compared. The results show that the presence of vegetation can modify the cross-circulation motion and the action of flow at the outer-bank. Thus, the presence of vegetation could be of crucial importance in the stability of the outer-bank and the adjacent bed.
