Wildlife Benefits of Riparian Buffers

Trapping Sediment and Pollutants

• The riparian buffer acts as a natural filter. All kinds of pollutants and sediments normally run off into streams or rivers and damage the ecosystem. For example, runoff from lawns or fields could have fertilizers, pesticides or other chemicals, but it gets stopped and absorbed by the buffer. Riparian buffers help stop erosion and keep excessive sediment from entering streams or rivers.

Fish Habitat

• Fish depend on a protected environment in order to thrive. If too much sediment from human developments runs into a stream, the sediment can clog the gills of fish or cover up their spawning locations. The vegetation and trees along the buffer help keep the water from getting too hot for many types of fish. Excessive heat could deplete the oxygen level in the water as well, making it less habitable for fish and other creatures.

Other Wildlife Habitats

• The riparian buffer is an important factor for keeping the ecosystem's food chain in order. For example, the woody debris from a riparian buffer feeds invertebrates in the water. These invertebrates are then in turn food for other wildlife in the area. The buffer will also provide shelter, fresh water and safe breeding sites for many animals such as mammals, amphibians, reptiles and many birds. Animals such as mice, voles, frogs, toads, snakes and turtles are all common in areas with good riparian buffers.

Travel Routes

• Riparian buffers also act as travel routes for the animals that live in the area. That way the animals don't have to leave the safety of the cover provided by the buffer to search for food, mates or breeding grounds. Animals like rabbits, deer and quail may all use a local riparian buffer as a migratory route.