River and Canal Engineering, the characteristics of open flowing streams, and the principles and methods to be followed in dealing with them.

"River and Canal Engineering" by E. S. Bellasis is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices involved in the engineering of streams that flow through open channels, tackling various aspects such as the hydraulic behavior of streams, the methods for controlling their flow, and strategies to combat issues like silting and scouring. The opening of the book sets the stage with a detailed introduction to River and Canal Engineering, emphasizing the importance of understanding open flowing streams. It outlines the structure of the work, which covers topics including rainfall statistics, the characteristics of stream behavior, methods of measuring discharge, and the effects of vegetation on water dynamics. The author stresses the need for accurate data collection concerning streams before undertaking any significant work, noting that variations in flow, sediment transport, and water levels play critical roles in stream management. This initial portion serves as a foundation for a deeper exploration of hydraulic engineering, providing valuable insights for engineers and students in the field.