The Riverscape and the River

by S. M. Haslam

Overview

In this study Dr Haslam examines how the quantity, function and ecology of water changes as it moves from watershed to river. The development of river and riverscape, their ecology, the effect of human activities (such as water abstractions, flood control and management for recreational use) and water resources are described both in principle and using case histories. Contrasting examples are given from across the world, including Iceland, Hungary, Malta, Britain and the USA, which enables understanding of how water and riverscape interact with each other, and with human impact. The study, development and loss of water resources is also described, including the extreme example of Malta, whose clean water now depends solely on oil imports. This innovative book is written for graduate students and professionals interested in how water and riverscape interact.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521839785
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	02/21/2008
Pages:	422
Product dimensions:	6.69(w) x 9.61(h) x 0.94(d)

About the Author

Dr S. M. Haslam is a fresh water ecologist in the Department of Plant Sciences at Cambridge University.

Table of Contents

Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Introduction; 2. The natural river and its destruction; 3. The natural riverscape and its modification; 4. Resources I. Water resources and their loss; 5. Development and variation of rivers; 6. Development and variation of riverscapes; 7. Building blocks of river vegetation; 8. Building blocks of flood plain vegetation; 9. Resources II. Plants and animals, cleaning and minerals; 10. Building blocks of the riverscape; 11. Patterns, boundaries and fragmentation; 12. Resources III. Settlements and constructions; 13. The harsh riverscape; 14. The tempered or smiling riverscape; 15. Envoi.

Editorial Reviews

"There is much to learn from this book about the many factors that influence riverscapes and the myriad different types of rivers and catchments."
Mark Young, Bulletin of the British Ecological Society 2008

"This volume will be invaluable to readers searching for a cultural perspective on rivers through time."
J.H. Thorp, III, Choice

"... there is much to be learned from the body of work presented."
Alexander K. Fremier, Ecology

"...packed full of diverse and significant information. For the naturalist with a keen interest in water, and with the time and focus required to work through the dense and complex content. The Riverscape and the River provides a wealth of subject matter for understanding and appreciating the nature of contemporary rivers and riverscapes." The Canadian Field-Naturalist

From the Publisher