With reference to an example which you have studied, describe and explain one way in which humans attempt to control river processes or marine(sea) processes or mass movement. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 30 - 2006

The process controlled by levees is flood mitigation.

Levees are embankments built alongside rivers to prevent floodwaters from spilling over into adjacent land. By raising the banks of a river, levees help to contain the flow and manage potential flooding during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt. The effectiveness of levees, however, depends on their maintenance and the surrounding environmental conditions, as heavy floods can sometimes overtop or breach levees, leading to significant water damage.

1. Levees increase the bank height of rivers.
2. They redirect water flow back into the river channel.
3. They protect agricultural land and urban areas from flooding.
4. They can be used in combination with flood control reservoirs.
5. Maintenance is crucial to prevent erosion and weakening of the levee.
6. Levees can lead to increased development in flood-prone areas, creating a false sense of security.
7. Mismanagement of levees can result in catastrophic failures.

For example, the levees along the Mississippi River in the United States are designed to control flooding and protect populated areas.