Channelization

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-004666",
  "term": "Channelization",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. The act of straightening a stream; typically widens and deepens the stream as well to improve the flow of water.\n\n2. The straightening and deepening of streams to permit water to move faster, to reduce flooding or to drain marshy acreage for farming. However, channelization reduces the organic waste assimilation capacity of the stream and may disturb fish breeding and destroy the stream's natural beauty.\n\n3. Straightening and deepening streams so water will move faster, a marsh-drainage tactic that can interfere with waste assimilation capacity, disturb fish and wildlife habitats, and aggravate flooding.\n\n4. River and stream channel engineering undertaken for the purpose of flood control, navigation, drainage improvement, and reduction of channel migration potential. Activities such as straightening, widening, deepening, or relocating existing stream channels and clearing or snagging operations fall into this category.",
  "subject": "Water",
  "references": [
    "Watershed Protection Glossary",
    "Aquatic Biodiversity Glossary",
    "Terms of Environment",
    "Federal Land Management in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/channelization/"
}