Riparian
Riparian areas are zones of vegetation adjacent to water, such as on floodplains and streambanks. Riparian areas exist across a range of climatic environments and support various communities of vegetation from native plants, grasses, shrubs to trees. Riparian areas are critical water storage areas that enhance local water supply through the infiltration and storage of water. Riparian areas also influence local water quality acting as filters of nutrients, pollutants, and sediments. Riparian vegetation physically protects landscapes by stabilizing streambanks, reducing erosion and storm runoff. As the climate changes, the benefits of riparian vegetation may become increasingly important for species reliant on clean, cold water and shade. Riparian areas are vulnerable to change due to land-use conversion and a warming climate that changes the habitat and distribution of riparian area species, and intensifies stressors such as fire, pests or pathogens.
-
Northwest Riparian Areas and Wetlands in a Changing Climate
Increasing resilience of these habitats to climate change is key to ensuring they continue to provide ecosystem…
-
Atmospheric Rivers in the Northwest
Atmospheric rivers are an important source of water, but they may cause more damage with climate change.
-
Building Water Resilience in the Northwest Through Rangeland Management
Information about how to avoid and cope with current and expected changes to water resources and rangeland health.
-
NRCS practices can support climate change adaptation
NRCS programs and practices can help landowners achieve their goals while supporting climate adaptation. This series of…
-
Storms and Stream Crossings
Stream-crossings have a lower risk of failure if designed appropriately for the stream, and with consideration of…
-
Shifts in Growing Degree Days, Plant Hardiness Zones and Heat Zones
Climate change is already having substantial effects on natural systems and the benefits they provide. Forest…
-
Tribal Climate Adaptation Menu
The Menu is an extensive collection of climate change adaptation actions for natural resource management with tribal…
-
Incised Stream Restoration in the Western U.S.
Stream erosion challenges and beaver-related restoration information for the western US.