Be A Responsible Waterfront Owner
A riparian area is the green area immediately adjacent to streams, rivers, and lakes. Riparian areas are identified by the presence of vegetation that requires large amounts of water.The soil in a riparian area consists of layered sediments of varying textures that are subject to intermittent flooding or fluctuating water tables that may reach the soil surface.
The duration of soil wetness depends on the water levels of the adjacent water body. This makes a big difference to riparian plants and determines where plants can grow.
Graphic adapted from NRCS, Bozeman, MT by A. Miller, Black Dog Graphics.
Why are Riparian areas important?
Because these areas are next to streams/rivers or lakes, they can:
- Recharge ground water
- Reduce downstream flooding
- Increase stream flows in dry weather
- Trap sediment and pollutants
- Cycle nutrients
- Provide shade to keep water cool
- Increase stream and bank stability
- Provide habitat for fish and other wildlife
How can we better protect the land around our lakes, rivers, and streams?
- Adopt river friendly lawn care
- Install riparian buffers
- Stabilize stream banks
- Manage woody debris
- Adopt better river/drain maintenance policies
How can I make my lawn care more friendly to the lake or river?
- Identify problem (not necessarily nutrients)
- Test first (county extension 810-244-8547 )
- Soil Compaction?
- Thatch?
- Native species
Maintain riparian buffer (Undisturbed land directly adjacent to stream)
- Filters sediment
- Absorbs chemicals
- Provides critical habitat linkages
- Protects against flooding and erosion
- Others
Stabilize Stream Banks
- Prevention
- New techniques
- Live Fascines
- Live Stakes
- Brush Mattresses
Manage Woody Debris
- Remove only those necessary
- Partially remove and replace woody debris
In-Stream woody debris creates and maintains habitat for fish and other aquatic creatures.
Riparian woody debris maintains stream temperature by providing shade.
Photo on right – It is not necessary to remove all vegetation on the left bank.Continued mowing of this bank will promote soil compaction and removal of deep-rooted vegetation will increase erosion potential. A result will be like the photo on the left. (Both photos taken in Carman Drain, a tributary to the Swartz Creek.)
