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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I , CHAPTER VII "STREAM CLASSIFICATION NEED " BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE .j Classification can be defined as the ordering of objects into sets on the basis of their similarities or their relationships (Platts 1980), Classification enables us to infer attributes of individual streams on the basis of their characteristics as they relate to the classification categories, The most effective classification systems are those that are based on objective, Quantifiable criteria that permit consistent use of the classification system (Rosgen 1996), The attempt to classify streams has been occurnng for many decades, . The purposes of stream classification, especially as it relates to Colorado stream rehabilitation projects, are to: 1) serve as an indicator of the dominant physical processes in the stream of interest; 2) aid in the evaluation of potential restoration projects that are competing for project funds; and 3) allow for clear communication between all parties involved in rehabilitation projects. One of the major benefits of this approach is to ensure that rehabilitation measures are in harmony with a stream's inherent characteristics, The objective of classifying streams is to set categories of discrete steam types so that consistent, reproducible descriptions and assessments of condition and potential can be developed, Examples of specific Objectives of a stream classification system are presented in the table below. Table VII - 1 - Specific Objectives of Stream Classification I Predict a stream's behavior from its appearance I Develop specific hydraulic and sediment relationships for a given stream type and its state . Provide a mechanism to extrapolate Site-speCific data to stream reaches having similar characteristics I Provide a consistent frame of reference for communicating stream morphology and condition among a variety of disciplines and interested parties, Section VlI.1