Abstract: The regionalization and rating scale of the health assessment for the Yangtze River are expounded from the criteria of point, line, and area. The study is made according to the characteristics of the physical geography and river system in the Yangtze River basin based on conventions and existing norms. In light of the assessment by first grade indicators and multidisciplinary indicators, the conversion of index values among different criteria and scales and the calculation method are also proposed to provide technical reference for the health assessment.

Key words: river health ,  assessment scale ,   Yangtze River basin