Los Angeles River Quiz
Urban channelization, watershed, flood history (10 questions).
Los Angeles River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Los Angeles River, a 51-mile waterway flowing through Los Angeles County, has a complex history defined by significant human intervention. Once a meandering, seasonal river, it underwent extensive channelization in the 20th century, drastically altering its natural character to protect urban development from devastating floods. Today, it remains a vital part of the region’s infrastructure, while also becoming a focus for ambitious revitalization projects.
Key Concepts
The LA River was primarily encased in concrete after the 1938 flood to prevent future widespread damage to urban areas.
Its watershed spans 834 square miles, covering a large portion of metropolitan Los Angeles County.
The catastrophic 1938 flood spurred the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to undertake the massive channelization project.
Current projects aim to restore ecological function and create public access points, moving beyond just flood control.
Key Takeaways
- The Los Angeles River was heavily channelized with concrete due to severe and frequent historical flooding.
- The 1938 flood was a turning point, leading to extensive flood control projects by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
- Its watershed covers approximately 834 square miles, making it central to a vast urban area.
- Historically, the river was seasonal and braided, a stark contrast to its current engineered form.
- Channelization facilitated urban development and land reclamation in the rapidly growing city.
- Modern initiatives focus on ecological restoration, green infrastructure, and increasing public access.
- The river serves as a crucial component of the region’s storm drain system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Los Angeles River channelized?
The Los Angeles River was extensively channelized, primarily with concrete, to control severe and frequent flooding that historically devastated the growing urban areas. Major floods, particularly the catastrophic 1938 event, prompted federal and local authorities to undertake large-scale flood control projects.
What is the size of the Los Angeles River watershed?
The Los Angeles River watershed covers approximately 834 square miles (2,160 square kilometers). It encompasses a significant portion of Los Angeles County, including major cities and numerous communities, collecting runoff from mountains and urban landscapes.
When did the major channelization of the river occur?
The most extensive channelization of the Los Angeles River occurred following the devastating 1938 Southern California Flood. This event prompted the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to embark on a multi-decade project to encase much of the river in concrete, transforming it into a flood control channel.
What are current efforts to revitalize the Los Angeles River?
Current efforts to revitalize the Los Angeles River focus on ecological restoration, creating green spaces, improving water quality, and increasing public access for recreation. Projects aim to remove concrete in certain sections, restore natural habitats, and integrate the river more effectively into the urban fabric as a park and wildlife corridor.
Is the Los Angeles River completely covered in concrete?
While the majority of the Los Angeles River’s 51-mile length is encased in concrete or flows through engineered channels, there are still some natural, soft-bottomed sections, particularly in its upper reaches and along specific stretches that have undergone restoration.
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