Channelization straightens, deepens and can widen a stream. Water flows much faster through the altered channel, resulting in increased erosion and flooding downstream. The straightened channel also moves more gravel and sediment downstream. In addition, channelizing can strip streambanks of vegetation, making them more prone to erosion. Good anglers know that the best fishing is in deep holes or pools.
Pools help protect streambanks from erosion by absorbing some of the energy of the flowing water.
By removing pools, riffles and deep holes, channelizing can harm fish and other aquatic life in the stream. Although channelization may appear to solve a problem in the short term, the stream will constantly work to return to its natural shape. The streams and rivers of Tennessee cross many property lines. Many Tennesseans rely on our streams, rivers, and lakes for drinking water. Streams and rivers are also home to countless plants and animals.