Geomorphology and River Management: Applications of the River Styles Framework

Rivers show a remarkable diversity of character and behaviour in any catchment. Human activities have impacted profoundly on the inherent variability in patterns and rates of river adjustment, altering what rivers look like, how they behave, and the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. This book outlines geomorphic considerations for river management and a generic set of procedures, termed the River Styles framework, which provides a set of tools for interpreting river character, behaviour, condition, and recovery potential. River management programs that 'work with nature' must respect the inherent diversity and behavioural regime of aquatic ecosystems. Each catchment should be managed in its own right, recognizing the patterns and connectivity of river forms and processes, as shaped by the configuration of the system and responses to disturbance events.Applications of the River Styles framework generate a coherent package of geomorphic information that provides a physical template for river rehabilitation activities. This book is essential reading for a wide range of river practitioners, including students, technical officers, consultants, and academics.