Fluvial geomorphology is the science dealing with the physical processes and characteristics of rivers and streams:
Some geomorphic factors considered during stream assessment are:

• Lateral and Vertical Channel Variability
• Bed and Bank Material Type, Composition and Stratigraphy
• Bed Forms
• Channel Cross Section Shape
• Channel Gradient
• River Valley Conditions
• Floodplain Conditions
• Riparian Vegetation
• Upstream Watershed Conditions (impervious cover, soils, vegetation)