Product Description

This text provides an overview of the physical and biological processes that shape California's rivers and watersheds. It introduces relevant basic principles of hydrology and geomorphology and applies them to an understanding of the differences in character of the state's many rivers. It then builds on this foundation by evaluating the impact on waterways of different land use practices-logging, mining, agriculture, flood control, urbanization, and water supply development. Water may be one of California's most valuable resources, but it is far from being one we control. In spite of channels, levees, lines and dams, the state's rivers still frequently flood, with devastating results. Almost all the rivers in California are dammed or diverted; with the booming population, there will be pressure for more intervention. The author argues that Californians know little about how their rivers work and, more importantly, how and why land-use practices impact rivers. The forceful reconfiguration and redistribution of the rivers has already brought the state to a critical crossroads. This text forces an evaluation of our use of the state's rivers and offers a foundation for participating in

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1710547 in Books
• Published on: 1995-10-27
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 376 pages

Customer Reviews

Great review of how rivers work with a sense of humor
This is a subperb review of how rivers systems work and how man-made changes effect these systems. Perfect for the interested layperson interested in earth science. The second half of this book covers the major watersheds of California.

Best book on how rivers work, not just for California.
I am a hydrologist and a water lawyer practicing in Washington DC -- this is the book I give to clients and friends to explain how rivers work and what people do to them. It assumes an intelligent reader but no background is required to get the main points. While its title and focus is California, the lessons are applicable throughout the country. Great book.

Great for the layman interested rivers & the environment
This book is perfect for the layperson interested in rivers as part of the world around us. Explains the mechanics of how rivers work and how they shape the environment around. Describes how and why rivers don't do what we want them to, even when we spend millions on extensive diversions and flood control. Jeff Mounts great sense of humor makes the subject alive and interesting what is often presented as dry and acedemic.