Stream Improvement Toolbox Bank Grading and Riparian Shelf • Reduces erosion • Narrows the channel • Replaces steep banks with a gradual slope or shelf • Restores native vegetation • Installed on outside bend of streams • Built with rocks and logs, triangle-shaped structure • Installed in an alternating pattern on straight channels • Used to direct flow away from the bank • Spaced 30 feet apart • Deflects current from the bank towards the middle of the channel • Creates plunge pools • Constructed as single or double vanes • Made with logs or stones • Resembles a “V” pointing upstream • Spaced 50 feet apart • Protects eroded banks • Narrows stream channel Building up a riparian shelf Multi-log Deflectors Cross Vanes Multi-log deflectors direct stream flow away from the bank. Log cross vane Trout Unlimited, local conservation districts, watershed groups and other similar organizations are important partners in habitat improvement. Partners PFBC website: www.fishandboat.com Pennsylvania Angler & Boater • January/February 2013 47