Signs of riparian area degradation
April 30, 2007:
On the Prairies, riparian areas account for less than two percent of the total land base, but maintaining their health is crucial for grazing areas, shade and water. According to technical sources with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration, some typical signs of riparian area degradation are:
- Reduced or seasonal flow but with increased flood peaks
- Shallow-rooted vegetation with reduced productivity and a lack of woody plant species
- Lack of shade or overhanging vegetation
- Streambank collapse with excessive down cutting
- Wide stream channel with shallow, muddy water
- Exposed soil on the bank or flood plain
- Invasion of undesirable plant species.
