Flooding and Management of Large Fluvial Lowlands

‘Hudson employs accessible prose and abundant, effective illustrations to argue the importance of the floodplains and deltas along large, lowland rivers. These river features are of vital importance to human and environmental sustainability, yet centuries of alteration resulting from human activities have in many cases severely compromised environmental functions. Hudson clearly explains the basic science underpinning our understanding of these functions, provides numerous and diverse case studies, and draws on scientific understanding to make specific, practical recommendations for better managing large river lowlands. A comprehensive summary of the state of the science.’ Ellen E. Wohl, Colorado State University‘This grounded and reflective study builds upon lived experience and direct personal connections to present an engaging, insightful and deeply researched resource that provides a comprehensive overview of geomorphic understandings of the Mississippi-Rhine lowland river systems.’ Gary Brierley, The University of Auckland‘Hudson provides a sweeping treatise on the human impacts to large fluvial lowlands, covering cases from the Rhine to the Mississippi. Given the increasing effects of development and environmental change on these hydrologic systems, there could not be a better time or author to thoroughly examine this topic. Hudson’s accessible writing style and attention to both problems and management solutions is a key resource for both students and practitioners.’ Sam Brody, Texas A&M University‘… a thorough, detailed account of the geomorphic and environmental impacts of hydraulic engineering as they affect fluvial lowlands. … This exemplary book is destined to remain the ultimate reference for understanding the impact humans have on large rivers, particularly the accompanying lowlands and deltas. …Highly recommended.’ E. Gomezdelcampo, Choice

Paul F. Hudson is Associate Professor of environmental physical geography at Leiden University in the Netherlands, where he relocated after serving for twelve years on the faculty at the University of Texas at Austin. His main scholarly interests involve the study of environmental change of large coastal plain rivers through the lens of physical geography, and in particular, geomorphology and hydrology. Hudson’s research investigates flooding, soil erosion, river adjustment, sediment transport, and the management of floodplain environments. He has provided expert advice concerning environmental water resources across a range of governmental scales: community, state, and national, including the Dutch parliament.