Mountain river

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Mountain rivers flow through narrow, deep valleys with steep sides and rocky beds, often carrying loose rock debris. They have steep slopes and fast water, are not very deep, and are full of rapids and waterfalls. The river’s slope is usually higher than in many other rivers. These waters shape the land by eroding and depositing rocks, creating deep valleys, gorges, and waterfalls. Waterfalls also help erode the landscape as water falls from the mountains.

Humans pollute mountain rivers, affecting their ecosystems, and climate change can raise water temperatures. Mountain rivers are especially vulnerable to warming, which can cause drying and affect water supplies for people. Since the 2000s, efforts to restore and improve mountain rivers have increased.

The channel of a mountain river can change a lot downstream, with width and depth shifting as erosion progresses. When flows are high—often in summer—these rivers carry large stones and rocks; with little fine sediment, the water can look very clear. Even if water seems clean, it may host bacteria and viruses, so it must be filtered and disinfected to drink.

Mountain rivers provide water for farming and cities. In the United States, mountain snow has long supplied a large share of drinking water. As populations grow in mountainous areas, local ecosystems can be affected and deforestation can increase.