The River Continuum Concept was the first unified hypothesis about how streams and their watersheds work. It dominated river studies for the next decade, and it established Stroud Water Research Center as a pioneer in innovative research.

About the Tool

Learn how the physical and biological systems within watersheds work together to create a continuum of resilient, interconnected ecosystems. Move from watershed to river basin to cross sections of headwaters, streams and rivers for a look at the inner world of surface water using the tabs below the image.  Click on the blinking dots for more information. Visit KQED Science for discussion questions and follow-up activities.

This interactive tool is part of the Quest Water series.