ABSTRACT
The term channelization encompasses all the procedures of river channel engineering which are used to control floods, improve drainage, maintain navigation, or restrain bank erosion. These procedures include enlargement, realignment, embanking or protection of an existing channel, or the construction of new channels. Other channelization procedures classified as river channel maintenance include dredging, cutting, or the removal of obstructions. A major development following the realization that conventional types of channelization may have undesirable consequences has been a number of studies exploring alternative methods of restraining rivers. This chapter shows how the application of conventional channelization methods can adversely affect the morphological and biological characteristics of river channels. It then shows how an understanding of the fluvial processes and forms of natural channels can be used to provide a basis upon which successful alternative procedures can be built. Channelization frequently involves the loss of riparian vegetation, which is itself an important habitat and provides shade against excessive water temperatures.
