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  This panoramic shows a steep slope along the Potomac River that was devastated during periods of high flow. Volunteers worked diligently to replant a riparian forest buffer to ensure future stability of the slope and to restore lost habitat. Riparian areas are among the first landscape features to show damage from land-use change, upland impacts and management. Fortunately, these areas respond well to improved management and restoration activities. Forests, upland from the water, help to sustain watershed functions and determine its resilience against natural and anthropogenic stresses. Fire, disease, insect infestation, improper management and use can leave watersheds vulnerable and reduce the quality of life of those who live there. Because of their position in the landscape, riparian areas and wetlands are critical to water quality, anchor the food web and provide essential fish and wildlife habitat, are among the richest in biological diversity and serve multiple functions to health and viability of aquatic systems. Panorama taken October 17, 2001 Also see; |
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