Riparian areas are the vitally important areas alongside streams, lakes, rivers, wetlands, and oceans. Vegetation in these areas helps to control erosion, reduce channelization of streams and rivers, and filter sediments and pollution in run-off waters before they reach the water where fish and other animals must survive. Humans, too, benefit from clean water for drinking, producing healthy fisheries, and for irrigation.

Shade from vegetation and trees helps keep the water temperature lower in the summer and works like insulation in the winter, moderating the water temperature for aquatic animals, fish, and insects.

Modern forest management techniques used in Oregon, as well as state laws, rules, and regulations, protect riparian areas during logging.

Riparian Area