Riparian 



Riparian vegetation is of paramount importance in stabilizing 

 stream banks. These plants provide habitat for wildlife, and 

 protect floodplains by impeding flows, slowing water velocity, 

 filtering sediment, and transmitting enormous quantities of water 

 into the air through transpiration. Riparian vegetation assures 

 good water quality by raising the ground water level which, in 

 turn, allows for sustained and regulated flow as well as the 

 recharging of the aquifer. Most riparian zones include sedges, 

 grasses and forbs, shrubs and trees. These flora species provide 

 critical thermal protection: shade in the summer to cool the 

 water, and a thermal blanket in winter to maintain free-flowing 

 streams. From this vegetative zone come the nutrients and 

 organic matter that fuel the overall functioning of the aquatic 

 ecosystem. For these reasons and more it is critical that as 

 much vegetation as possible b e left along river banks and 

 adjacent areas (riparian influence zone) . In general the 

 riparian areas observed in this study are in need of restoration. 

 Once a healthy riparian area is again established, perhaps 

 sculpin will inhabit these ecologically preferred areas. 



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