WHITEWATER IN YOUR TOWN
Course Types
The terms whitewater “courses,” “parks” and even “stadiums” are being used interchangeably to refer to both artificially enhanced rivers and completely self-contained venues. As this outdoor recreation expertise evolves, new terms will be added to our vocabulary. Here are a few to get you started:
In-Channel - courses which modify the flow of water and create intentional hydrologic features in existing river or stream beds. These are by far most common. Their design and construction can also be the most demanding, for the structural integrity of any in-channel structures must be high to withstand constant flow and extreme fluctuation.
Out-of-Channel - courses that create intentional features and flow on water which has been diverted from a river or stream.
Diversion - a structure or system which obstructs or diverts water flow, like a dam.
Recirculating - courses which are self-contained and employ pumps to move water the site. There are a growing number of these around the world, still limited in number due their complexity.