Integrated River Restoration in a Mountainous City and Case Study

Abstract The river in a mountainous city is usually confronted with problems of short flood response time, water shortage in the dry season, artificialization of river channel, and shortage of hydrophilic spaces. Besides traditional requirements of flood control and drainage, the urban river also has functions of providing habitat, landscape, and recreation. We developed an integrated plan for river restoration in a mountainous city, based on the concept of safe, near natural, and convenient to enjoy water. We carried out case study of the Jiangshui River in Longkou City, Shandong Province, considering integrated aspects of flood control, water resources allocation, environmental protection, ecological restoration, and river landscape. Flood security was assessed by applying one-dimensional hydraulic model. Base flow was estimated, and it was maintained in the dry season by water saving in upstream irrigation areas and reuse of treated water. Water quality could be improved by increasing the collecting capacity of waste water. The low flow channel was meandering in the channel with water falls to increase habitat diversity and accessibility to water. The flood land was vegetated and constructed for citizens to enjoy water. The restoration project in the Jiangshui River was executed from 2013 to 2014. This study can help accumulate experiences of urban river restoration especially for the river in mountainous cities.