*5.1. Fundamental Engineering Performance*

Some of the fundamental engineering issues surrounding river relocation involve changes to the dimensions or gradient of the channel, materials, built-in engineered structures such as culverts, and the lining and length of the channel. From an engineering perspective, when a channel is relocated, the fundamental concerns are the ability of the channel to convey flood flow, and the overall structural stability of the channel. Failure of the relocated channel from an engineering perspective consequently means the structural collapse of channel elements, such as culvert failure, embankment breaching, or the overtopping of the structure during flood flow events.
