So, if you have ever been interested in geography, you’ve probably wondered about Riparian areas. What are Riparian areas? This lesser-known term refers to lands that border natural waterways. Natural waterways include streams, rivers, and lakes. Riparian areas comprise less than 1% of the total land area. They are almost always adjacent to arid upland areas where vegetation and animal life are less diverse and where water is less accessible. These water-rich areas are valuable for their ability to sustain diverse vegetation, to provide habitat for endangered and threatened species, and to purify and replenish natural aquifers. Riparian areas have become increasingly vulnerable due to development, overgrazing, dam construction, clearance of vegetation, and increased recreational uses. These unique areas are essential to the well-being of local communities and to the future of a healthy, productive environment.
Across the United States, riparian areas are similar ecologically. The key characteristics shared by these areas include fresh, flowing water, diverse vegetation, and sedimentary soil. These characteristics work together successfully to maintain a healthy riparian environment.
Water flow is critical in a riparian ecosystem. Riparian areas are low-lying. The water flows easily in this area. This flow carries sedimentary materials along the streambeds or river channels; seasonal fluctuations may alter this flow with periodic flooding. Ground water levels are closer to the surface and easily available for plant life. The water carries essential nutrients that support the vegetation and provides a cooling environment for fish and insect populations. Wildlife often depends solely upon these water sources, particularly in the Western United States.
Vegetation flourishes because of the availability of water and rich soil. Tree roots and fallen trunks and branches can slow water flow creating a supportive environment for aquatic insects. Pools provide nurseries for freshwater fish species which can then feed on insects. This organic material also allows time for water to infiltrate the soil. Leaf drop contributes to the energy cycle by providing food to the fish and rich organic matter to the ecosystem. Vegetation provides shelter from extreme temperatures, keeping streams cool and providing more oxygen for fish to breathe. Wildlife habitats are made available with the abundance of water, cover, and nesting areas. Sedimentary materials deposited by the movement of water prevent erosion and provide a source of minerals and other nutrients for vegetation, and act as a filter for ground water. The soil in a riparian area is composed of stratified sediments which can store large amounts of water.
Factors affecting the ecosystem of a riparian area include natural events, such as flooding and drought, and manmade changes. Natural, seasonal flooding may initially appear destructive, but the riparian environment can recover quickly. Manmade changes are much more influential and long term. The most common types of damage caused by man are development, re-channelization of the water flow (dams and levees), clearing vegetation, logging, and overgrazing by livestock. Recreational development also can disturb the natural balance between plant life and animal habitats. These changes affect water quality by introducing waste products. Development can include urbanization, mining, irrigation, and other agricultural uses. These developments withdraw water from the riparian system and consequently reduce the water table. As the ground water levels are lowered, there is less water for plant growth, affecting the type and quantity of vegetation. When water flow rate is reduced, less soil material and other nutrients are able to pass through the ecosystem. Non-native plant species may be inadvertently introduced causing a decline in the native plant population. Additionally, pollution may be introduced, and this affects water quality throughout the area. Wildlife habitat can be dramatically affected since many endangered and threatened species depend on a healthy riparian environment.
When a dam is constructed at the headwaters leading to a riparian area, water flow can be significantly affected. Water is prevented from flowing naturally causing a reduction in sedimentary materials from being carried downstream and thus affecting the quality of water and soil for plant growth. Releasing large amounts of water at one time can cause flooding and destruction of soil deposits along the streambanks and uproot vegetation.
Logging, clearance of vegetation, and livestock grazing all have a major impact on riparian areas. Once vegetation is removed, water can move quickly, taking with it any remaining soil material. When sedimentary soils are gone, water cannot be stored, and ground water is reduced. Plants are unable to take root and mature. Animal and bird habitats are impacted; wildlife corridors can be altered by interrupting migratory patterns. Pollutants are introduced to the system without adequate sediments to filter them out. Livestock grazing removes additional plant material and further erodes stream banks. Many people are attracted to riparian areas because of the natural environment of water, trees, and wildlife. When poorly managed, hiking, camping, fishing, and other recreational activities can degrade a riparian ecosystem. If vegetation is damaged and soil eroded, wildlife habitats can be changed sufficiently to drive out many species of birds and animals. Riparian areas can be protected and rehabilitated with effective management techniques. Local and regional policies can include controlling urbanization and other developments. Mining, logging, and grazing can be managed to reduce the impact on these areas. Community developments can be situated so they do not interfere with the quantity and quality of natural aquifers connected to a riparian area. Conservation techniques can be implemented to reduce the demand on nearby ground water sources. Streams and rivers feeding into a riparian environment can be allowed to flow freely by not constructing dams and other water-diverting developments. Educating those who use these areas for recreation can limit damage to these delicate environments. Riparian areas are truly unique ecosystems which can be protected with sound policies and thoughtful long-range planning. Local and regional organizations must be able to preserve them for future generations.
Cohen, Russell. Riverways Program. Massachusetts Dept. of Fisheries. Wildlife Riparian Areas, 8 July 1997. 10 Dec. 2001.
King County, Washington. Dept. of Natural Resources. Water and Land 9 Dec. 2001.
United States Dept. of Agriculture. Natural Resources Conservation Service. NRCS/RCA Issue Brief 11, August 1996. 9 Dec. 2001.
United States Dept. of the Interior. Bureau of Land Management. Volunteers, Ribbons of Green, 1 Sept. 1996. 10 Dec. 2001.
