Which term refers to a natural stream or a channel constructed for water conveyance?

The term that refers to a natural stream or a channel constructed for water conveyance is aptly defined as a channel. A channel serves as a defined pathway for water flow, which can include both natural features, such as rivers and streams, and artificial constructions designed to facilitate the movement of water.

Understanding the importance of channels in the context of grading, drainage, and stormwater management is vital since these structures are critical for controlling water flow, preventing flooding, and managing runoff in various environments. Their design and maintenance are fundamental aspects of effective water management practices.

In contrast, a catch basin is specifically designed to collect runoff and sediment from impervious surfaces but does not refer to a channel per se. Cluster development pertains to a planning approach that affects land use and development density without any inherent relation to water conveyance. A borrow area is a location where soil or rock is excavated for use in construction, which does not involve water flow or conveyance.