WWRC 83-04
Two Approaches for Estimation of Manning's n in Mountain Streams
Abstract
An analysis of roughness coefficients for mountain streams in the
Rocky Mountain Region was conducted to devise an empirical method for
determination of Manning's n. Two approaches were developed. One
procedure utilizes a diagrammatic key approach based upon water surface
slope and observable channel characteristics, while the other attempts
to relate the time-of-travel velocity of a dye cloud through a stream
reach to channel roughness. The conclusions drawn indicate that good
potential exists for the use of the diagrammatic key approach. A second
significant conclusion of the study is that the estimation of n for
steep, rough, tributaries at low flow by means of published tables
and/or photographic comparisons can lead to erroneous results.
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