From the headwaters to an elevation of about  above sea level, the Chama runs as a steep mountain torrent. As it progresses through the valley, it quickly becomes contaminated with sewage from the many towns that lie along its path.
From its source to an elevation of approximately above sea level, the Chama flows as a swift mountain torrent. As it traverses the valley, it gradually becomes tainted with sewage from the numerous settlements in its path.