### Estimating suspended sediment using acoustics in a fine-grained riverine system, Kickapoo Creek at Bloomington, Illinois

By: Amanda D. ManasterMarian M. Domanski**Timothy D. Straub**Justin A. Boldt

                            https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr20161117

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#### Abstract

First posted August 18, 2016

**For additional information, contact:**
Director, Illinois Water Science Center  U.S. Geological Survey 405 North Goodwin Avenue  Urbana, IL 61801http://il.water.usgs.gov

Acoustic technologies have the potential to be used as a surrogate for measuring suspended-sediment concentration (SSC). This potential was examined in a fine-grained (97-100 percent fines) riverine system in central Illinois by way of installation of an acoustic instrument. Acoustic data were collected continuously over the span of 5.5 years. Acoustic parameters were regressed against SSC data to determine the accuracy of using acoustic technology as a surrogate for measuring SSC in a fine-grained riverine system. The resulting regressions for SSC and sediment acoustic parameters had coefficients of determination ranging from 0.75 to 0.97 for various events and configurations. The overall Nash-Sutcliffe model-fit efficiency was 0.95 for the 132 observed and predicted SSC values determined using the sediment acoustic parameter regressions. The study of using acoustic technologies as a surrogate for measuring SSC in fine-grained riverine systems is ongoing. The results at this site are promising in the realm of surrogate technology.

#### Suggested Citation

Manaster, A.D, Domanski, M.M., Straub, T.D., and Boldt, J.A., 2016, Estimating suspended sediment using acoustics in a fine-grained riverine system on Kickapoo Creek at Bloomington, Illinois: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2016–1117, 42 p., http://dx.doi.org/10.3133/ofr20161117.

ISSN: 2331-1258 (online)

#### Study Area

#### Table of Contents

- Abstract
- Introduction
- Purpose and Scope
- Methods
- Sediment Acoustic Index Rating Development
- Summary
- References Cited
- Appendixes 1–6

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