Riparian Habitat

Stream bordered by native riparian habitat.

Riparian habitat is the assortment of native plants that occur adjacent to freshwater streams, creeks and rivers. Riparian zones are prone to flooding and associated land movement, and the plant species found in streamside zones are well adapted to this ever-changing environment. Coastal watersheds in Central California, including those in San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties, are made up of extensive stream networks that support this habitat. Healthy riparian habitat is a key element in maintaining stream conditions that support salmonid populations. The following sections examine riparian systems:

Benefits and Values – discusses the importance of riparian habitat in maintaining ecosystem health and biological communities.

Ecological Succession – describes how natural processes create a diverse, highly productive system.

Impacts of Development – examines the impacts of land use and development and how these changes affect stream habitats.

Invasive Species – examines the impacts of invasive, non-native plant species on riparian habitat function.