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https://hdl.handle.net/11681/26771| Title: | Environmental value of riparian vegetation |
| Authors: | Davis, Mary M. Mitchell, Wilma A. Wakeley, James S., 1950- Fischenich, J. Craig, 1962- Craft, Monica M. |
| Keywords: | Riparian plants Environmental impact analysis Riparian forests |
| Publisher: | Environmental Laboratory (U.S.) U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. |
| Series/Report no.: | Technical Report ; EL-96-16 |
| Abstract: | The riparian vegetation that occurs along rivers and streams throughout the country performs many functions that have considerable value for society. There is an interaction between the hydrology and hydraulics of streams and vegetation. Riparian ecosystems in eastern and western parts of the country differ considerably due to differences in surface water dynamics. The depth, duration, and frequency of inundation determine in large part the type and distribution of riparian vegetation in areas with more precipitation than evaporation; depth to groundwater is the primary factor influencing distribution of riparian vegetation in arid areas. In turn, riparian vegetation affects hydrologic and hydraulic functions of rivers and streams, such as maintenance of stream morphology and flood attenuation, by providing resistance to flow and stabilizing bank materials. Stream water quality is modified by riparian vegetation as sediment is trapped and dissolved materials are retained or removed by the plants. Riparian vegetation supports a wide diversity of wildlife species that depend on the protected access to water, food, refuge, and breeding area provided in riparian areas. Removal of riparian vegetation often has adverse ecological and hydraulic consequences that need to be weighed against the benefits. |
| Description: | Technical Report |
| Gov't Doc #: | Technical Report EL-96-16 |
| Rights: | Approved for Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited |
| URI: | http://hdl.handle.net/11681/26771 |
| Size: | 187 pages/17.46 Mb |
| Appears in Collections: | Technical Report |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TR EL-96-16.pdf | 17.89 MB | Adobe PDF |  View/Open |