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.
The Chama river begins at high altitudes and descends into the valley as a powerful watercourse. Nevertheless, as it passes through the populated regions, it rapidly becomes polluted with wastewater from the surrounding towns and cities.