Originally published in 1981, this book describes and interprets the physical nature of British rivers and is authored by leading authors from universities, the Institute of Hydrology and a water Authority. The contents include data on river regimes and catchment characteristics, information on water quality in both polluted and unpolluted rivers, a full discussion of river channels and their erosion and sediment characteristics, and a consideration of river management problems in the distinctive British context. Where possible, nationwide information is presented in map form and many of the maps presented a national picture for the first time. The book will be of interest to students and scientists in a wide range of disciplines: geography, geology, environmental science, hydrology and engineering. Those professionally engaged in environmental management and the water industry should also find it useful. In summary, all who are concerned with rivers – as agents of landscape change, sedimenting phenomena, environmental resources or flood hazards will find this book as relevant now as when it was first published.