This study was focused on estimating instream flow, and its optimal alternative for securing the required total amount of instream flow was also researched in order to restore ecosystems and riverine aesthetics of the Mugeo Stream, the first tributary of the Taewha River flowing through the center of Ulsan. In this study the hydraulic and hydrologic conditions and water quality were investigated at specific channel reaches and representative stations of the Mugeo Stream to determine a proper estimate of instream flow. And riverine functions, such as the minimum flow, water quality conservation, fish habitat, and recreation, were considered to restore the environmental functions of the stream. As a result, the total amount of 11,500㎥/day was set as the target instream flow for the Mugeo Stream. It was chosen as the optimal alternative for securing the total external supply of 10,000㎥/day which have to be transfered from the riverbed flow diverted through the Taewha Main river at upstream of Samho bridge. The water quality throughout the Mugeo Stream channels will be improved considerably to 3-4 mg/l of BOD standard if the target instream flow is supplied and sewage is intercepted by the sanitary sewage system.

The objectives of this study were to investigate the physical, chemical, and structural characteristics of the stream, especially Mugeo and Yeochon which are being changed to ecological stream by Ulsan city, and to acquire the considerations such as the planning element and plan criteria of the streams for making ecological stream system. Water quality, water quantity, vegetation, instream structures and facilities, and land usage of the streams were investigated and the build up capabilities of ecological stream for the two streams were also analyzed. Planning elements for restoration to ecological stream included physical and biological purification methods in water quality, short term water acquire alternatives in water quantity, and vegetation recovery plan and improvement of habitation environment in ecological system, respectively. Planing elements in physical structures and facilities also included recovery of concrete levee and removal and recovery of covered channel.