Rivers and creeks are dynamic systems. They move and change over time and during different seasons, eroding river banks and creating new channels. Channel migration mapping is a relatively new tool that can help us better understand lateral river and creek movement and predict where rivers and creeks may move in the future. This, in turn, can help landowners and communities prevent sometimes costly and potentially catastrophic damage to property, roads, bridges, and structures. Understanding the various factors involved in channel migration and how they interact is essential to protecting the health of flowing water systems and the integrity of the adjoining land.

Click the images on the right to see the main channel of Lolo Creek migrate over time!

Resources with information on Channel Migration Zones:

Channel Migration Assessment– This web site provides a scientific method of analysis designed to identify channel migration zones (CMZs) based on historic patterns, and hydrologic and geomorphic factors.

Clark Fork River Channel Migration Zone Study (USFS) – An extensive report on the channel migration of the Clark Fork River including many diagrams and maps showing the channel migration of this river over time.