Evaluating channel condition and risks associated with Rock Creek after recent floods and a tornado, Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Schook, Derek

Chickasaw National Recreation Area (CHIC) staff requested support from the National Park Service Water Resources Division (WRD) to evaluate park waterways after recently experiencing several large floods and a tornado. The focus of this effort was on the park’s largest stream, Rock Creek, and threats that it may pose to visitors, infrastructure, and natural resources. An assessment of Rock Creek conditions and their compatibility with existing and proposed infrastructure was undertaken as part of tornado disaster recovery efforts. Overall, we interpret Rock Creek to be adjusting in a resilient and relatively moderate way considering the recent extreme events. Its steep riverbanks have eroded and will continue to adjust, but they remain fairly stable because of high soil cohesion, bedrock control, and protection by riparian vegetation and downed wood. Widespread in-channel flow intervention and bank stabilization are not recommended, although redesign of some visitor use areas with an awareness of river dynamics will enhance visitor safety and infrastructure protection. A prime example would be replacement of the Job Corps Bridge, which would reduce flood hazard exposure to visitors and reduce maintenance needs associated with the bridge. Additional assessments in this report focus on Rock Creek at 1) Black Sulphur Springs, 2) Walnut Grove, and 3) a rock revetment wall, as well as a brief assessment of Travertine Creek.