The Riverscape and the River

Description

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.

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

Review of the hardback: '... a book that deliberately provides a wide and generous view of river landscapes ...' Bulletin of the British Ecological Society Review of the hardback: 'The Riverscape and the River is an interesting book that ... contains some important observations and useful perspectives on the history and nature of riverscapes, and would be a welcome supporting text to an ecological library.' The Geographical Journal Review of the hardback: '... very well prepared ... a valuable contribution to the literature-base regarding river landscapes with a strong landscape ecological focus. The author sets the landscape and the scenery into focus which makes the book different from purely bio-physical or soil-science oriented volumes in existence. I would recommend individual chapters of the book also to non-landscape ecologists (e.g., social scientists or economists) for educational purposes, since they comprise excellent reading assignments for interdisciplinary discussions about landscape understanding and landscape complexity. In more general terms, I wholeheartedly recommend it to the entire spectrum of landscape ecologists, particularly to undergraduate and graduate students due to its character of a 'landscape reader'. Doubtless, it is a welcome systematic view on riverscapes for professionals, planners, and scientists, as well as laymen who are simply interested in riverine landscapes.' Landscape Ecology Review of the hardback: '... a very worthwhile guide to the future management of river catchments and I came to the conclusion that Chapter 4 especially should be compulsory reading, as an awful warning, for all who seek to manipulate streams and rivers in our technological and ideological world.' Elizabeth Y. Howorth