[roads] Channelization is an engineering concept which employs the use of secondary roads to separate certain flows of traffic from the main traffic lanes. This method came into favor in the United States in the 1950s. ... Found on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Channelization_(roads)
The process by which humans deepen and straighten natural streams, converting them into water-filled ditches. Theoretically channelization controls flooding along the stream, but it destroys the stream ecosystem and often increases flooding downstream. Found on https://academy.allaboutbirds.org/bird-academys-a-to-z-glossary-of-bird-ter
Straightening and deepening streams so water will move faster, a marsh-drainage tactic that can interfere with waste assimilation capacity, disturb fish and wildlife habitats, and aggravate flooding. Found on https://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/20094