| Abstract: | Increased sediment loads and sedimentation rates in rivers and streams have produced major disturbances to the society. However, while discussing f sediment transport and sediment induced problems focuses have often been given to those related to coarse sediments; tine sediment induces problems have been primarily investigated in bays and estuaries. In the case of Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS), increased turbidity and suspended sediment solids in the water column; heavy sediment deposition in channel boarders, backwater lakes, and side channels have shown to be problematic. Besides their impacts on human activities, fine sediments have also adversely affected water quality and flora and fauna of the river System. The total areas that affected, their accessibility, the amount, not to mention the contaminants involved, are complex challenges to the e1Yorts to restore the rivers' functions. Many resource managers consider heavy sediment deposition in backwaters and side channels to be one of the most severe environmental problems on the UMRS. Large rivers are priceless resources and sedimentation plays a vital role in their sustainability. The example and experience learned from the UMRS can provide valuable information for management practices of other river basins. |
