CQHEI Section IV - Riparian Area & Erosion
Width of Riparian Forest & Wetlands
The work "riparian" is derived from the Latin ripa, meaning river bank. A riparian zone, be it forested or wetland, is a buffer between upland areas and surface water. It filters contaminants from upland acreage - reducing sedimentation and pollution. It dissipates stream energy - reducing flood damage and bank erosion.
Land Use
It may be helpful to use the map on the back of your form for notes - and to average the land use types. If pastured areas allow livestock access to streams, it is considered to be open pasture. Note presence of buffer (filter) strips, if any.
Bank Erosion
Erosion is a snapshot of bank stability as it exists when you complete your survey. Because of damages from Spring 2008 floods, it may be helpful to note exposed tree roots and other stabilizing features - especially when the current bank condition is raw and eroding.
Shading
Think tree canopy. Because you are surveying about 200ft of stream, part may be in shade and part in full sun. If half in shade and half out - slect partly (2pt).
