L.A. River: Quest for a more natural resource

Lining much of the river with concrete greatly reduced the flooding that used to bedevil the region, but subsequent development did not take advantage of the urban stream. Instead of incorporating it in landscaping and design, new buildings turned their backs on the river. A reversal of sorts is in the works, as planners envision a waterway that will give people a place to play, protect against flooding, improve water quality and replenish supplies of fresh water. In this latest in a series of occasional graphics, here’s a look at steps to improve the river water’s environmental qualities: