The paper presents an approach to the understanding of the structure and dynamics of mountain rivers which is primarily based on field research. Applicable methodologies have been developed at the Department of Geomorphology of the Jagiellonian University, Cracow. In studies of entire channel systems individual channels are divided into uniform reaches on the basis of their pattern as viewed on a map, and then investigated in the field with the use of specially designed survey forms. The forms cover five groups of data which are the identity of the channels, channel landforms, deposits, civil engineering structures and the characteristics of the drainage basins. The data collected provide insights into the rates of morphogenetic processes. Cartographic material, aerial photos and other information on the channels and their drainage basins should also be analysed in parallel with the field research. The channel parameters, landforms and bedload information, as well as calculated indicators on the channel reaches, provide the basis for a typology of channel reaches. A number of cases from selected research studies are discussed here. General patterns in the development of mountain river channels are also presented which are derived from studies of Carpathian and foreland rivers. These studies concluded that ...
The Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), implemented in Poland, obliges to improve rivers ecological state. A change of fluvial system management methods, consisting in reduction of technical means usage at channel maintenance, is necessary. The channels of mountain rivers and streams are especially interference-sensitive. Wrong river training works in these channels lead in the short time to drastic changes along them. The consequences of these changes are not only environmental, but also economic. This study demonstrates the present state of knowledge about the reasons of Carpathian channel changes, channel response to individual interferences, and modern alternative solutions in the matter of channel management. A method of comprehensive geomorphologic investigations of mountain channels is also presented. According to the opinion of the authors these investigations should be carried out in order to better recognize functioning of these channels. The main purpose of the work is to show the results of some activities which seems to be wrong in present time. The necessity of interdisciplinary approach to fluvial system management is accented because determination of adequate works improving environmental conditions of rivers requires research of correlation between many environmental components. Therefore this work is addressed to representatives of different disciplines, mainly to civil ...
