The report represents a review of available published data on the effect of water temperature on discharge and bed configuration in a specific reach of the Lower Mississippi River. (Author).

A study of the theoretical and observed effects of changes in water temperature on the transportation of bed material.

Observations in natural rivers as well as experimental laboratory streams indicate that water temperatures significantly affect stream stage-discharge relations, bed forms, and sediment-transport rates. However, various investigators in this field have reached conclusions that appear to be contradictory, and the complex phenomena involved are not yet fully understood. With a view to clarifying further the water-temperature effects indicated by field measurements, the Committee on Channel Stabilization canvassed the Division offices of the Corps of Engineers for available historic data on discharge and water-temperature measurements in large alluvial rivers. The basic data received on the Mississippi, Missouri, and Arkansas Rivers were analyzed to determine temperature effects on the stage-discharge relations at 31 river stages at 18 gaging stations. The tabulated basic field data are included in this report. (Author).