Dam Removal Monitoring Study Kirkpatrick Dam and Rodman Reservoir

King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

^* Corresponding author: mmkheimi@kau.edu.sa

Abstract

This study presents a modelling and monitoring framework to assess the hydrological and geomorphic impacts of removing the Kirkpatrick (Rodman) Dam on the Ocklawaha River in Florida. Utilizing historical streamflow records from USGS (1994–2015), sediment samples from a 2019 field study, and HEC-RAS simulations, the research explores changes in flow regimes, sediment transport, and floodplain dynamics under current and post-dam conditions. Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration (IHA) analysis reveals significant disruption to the river’s natural flow following dam construction, with increased low-flow frequency and reduced seasonal variability. HEC-RAS simulations under steady and unsteady scenarios demonstrate altered hydraulic parameters, reduced sediment transport capacity, and formation of depositional bars. The study models four return- period events (10-, 25-, 50-, and 100-year floods) to compare inundation patterns with and without the dam. Findings show that dam removal would restore natural flow connectivity but also increase the risk of channel erosion and bank instability due to higher sediment mobility. While data limitations exist, the results highlight key considerations for river restoration, including flood risk management and ecological resilience. This research provides a preliminary yet data-driven approach to understanding dam removal consequences, supporting informed environmental management and long- term restoration planning for the Ocklawaha River.