Comparison of Direct and Indirect Boundary Shear Stress Measurements along Vegetated Streambanks

Estimates of boundary shear stress along vegetated streambanks are needed to predict streambank fluvial erosion. Because fluvial shear stress cannot be directly measured in the field, reliable estimation techniques using field instrumentation are needed. This study evaluated local bank shear stress estimation methods applicable to sloping, vegetated streambanks. Two reaches of a second order stream were modelled in a flume using a fixed‐bed Froude‐scale modelling technique. One reach was dominated by dense shrubs while the other reach was located in a mature forest. Direct measurements of local bank shear stress using a hot‐film anemometer were compared to estimates based on velocity measurements (logarithmic method, Reynolds stresses, and turbulent kinetic energy). For channels with no or widely spaced vegetation, the velocity‐based estimates underestimated the bank shear stress due to secondary flow contributions. For banks with dense vegetation, Reynolds stresses and turbulent kinetic energy estimates were statistically similar to direct measurements on average, but substantial error occurred when making point comparisons. Velocity‐based estimates generally over predicted bank stress in areas of high shear at the vegetation edge and underpredicted stress within dense vegetation. Ultimately, results suggest that none of tested techniques can be broadly applied to streambanks, and flow structure is critical in selecting the appropriate estimation technique. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.