The River Scene: Ecology and Cultural Heritage

Description

The River Scene is a uniquely stimulating guide to the appreciation and preservation of rivers. In this highly illustrated account, Sylvia Haslam presents a new scheme for the evaluation of river quality which can be used by a wide range of users, from amateur conservationists to water-management professionals. The book presents an overview of river ecology, looking first at the natural environment - river structure, classification and pollution. This is followed by a discussion of the cultural environment, the importance of which is often overlooked: the history, archaeology, and social and legal contexts of rivers. Dr Haslam is a leading international authority on rivers and their vegetation. By understanding the natural and cultural environments of rivers and applying the methods she describes, our awareness and appreciation of these beautiful resources can be greatly enhanced, and their conservation for the future aided.

'Dr. Haslam has generated a fresh urge to look for more features in each and every river ... she has produced more than just a simple introduction to assessment processes ... should encourage field studies to take a larger view of the processes occuring in rivers and streams ... I set out to review this book, but became hooked and read it from cover to cover in one session.' M. P. Ripley, Biologist 'This is a unique and stimulating guide to the appreciation and preservation of rivers ... No one who reads this book could fail to have their awareness and appreciation of rivers greatly enhanced. This book is highly recommended for the sixth-form or college library, where it will provide many ideas for project work. It should be read by anyone who has even a passsing interest in the often neglected resource that is our rivers.' Terry Jennings, SSR '... very comprehensive ... An essential book for anyone concerned with the conservation, management and ecology of rivers.' Bryan Sage, Country-Side 'As a 'River Friend' and a leading internatonal authority on rivers, Dr Haslam has produced a stimulating overview which deserves a wide readership, and which will add considerably to the understanding and enjoyment of the many complex scenes of our rivers.' D. T. Taverner, Journal of Biological Education