California Rivers and Streams provides a clear and informative overview of the physical and biological processes that shape California's rivers and watersheds. Jeffrey Mount introduces relevant basic principles of hydrology and geomorphology and applies them to an understanding of the differences in character of the state's many rivers. He then builds on this foundation by evaluating the impact on waterways of different land use practices—logging, mining, agriculture, flood control, urbanization, and water supply development. Water may be one of California's most valuable resources, but it is far from being one we control. In spite of channels, levees, lines and dams, the state's rivers still frequently flood, with devastating results. Almost all the rivers in California are dammed or diverted; with the booming population, there will be pressure for more intervention. Mount argues that Californians know little about how their rivers work and, more importantly, how and why land-use practices impact rivers. The forceful reconfiguration and redistribution of the rivers has already brought the state to a critical crossroads. California Rivers and Streams forces us to reevaluate our use of the state's rivers and offers a foundation for participating in the heated debates about their future.

Award-winning author, naturalist, and conservationist Tim Palmer presents the world of California rivers in this practical and inspiring field guide. Loaded with tips on where to hike, fish, canoe, kayak, and raft, it offers an interpretive approach that reveals geology, plant and wild life, hydrologic processes, and other natural phenomena. Palmer reports on conservation with a perspective from decades of personal engagement. More than 150 streams are featured, 50 riparian species are illustrated, and 180 photos show the essence of California’s rivers. Palmer brings a natural history guide, a recreation guide, and an introduction to river ecology together in one illuminating volume; it belongs in every river lover’s book collection, boat, and backpack.

"River enthusiasts of every kind will find this a handy and authoritative sourcebook made for your bookshelf, boat, backpack, and car. Field Guide to California Rivers is a reference for play no matter what your age, for work if you're professionally involved with rivers, and for daily living if you simply want to know more about the streams nearest your home. Beyond helping you figure out where to go and how to enjoy the rivers and streams by hiking, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing, this guide offers an interpretive approach--it describes the network of waterways and the special qualities and natural features of each. Fifty illustrations identify the most common riparian plants and animals, 150 rivers and streams are featured, and 140 photos by award-winning author and photographer Tim Palmer show the variety, beauty, and grandeur of California's magnificent but threatened rivers estate. Includes regional maps showing every river"--

Iincredible photographs of California's rivers repeating the triumph of author's Rivers of America book

This ia a synopsis and review of the major rivers of the world.

The Santa Ana River Guide: From Crest to Coast-110 Miles along Southern California's Largest River System reveals both the wild and urban sides of the Southland's most important river. The book relates the river's natural and human history, geology, and current conditions and provides all the information necessary to plan an outing on or near the river. Organised into six geographical sections corresponding to the river's "reaches," the book's individual entries include an extensive description of each park and preserve, location and access information, and highlights of what to do there. In addition to covering the recreational possibilities, the book is a call to action for further protecting and restoring the river.