Understanding a Riparian Zone

            This is a post to help people to know what a riparian zone is on world water day. The riparian zone indicates how stable a river or stream is and how well-sustained the fish and wildlife may be. Logging, industry, farm animals, farming, growing cities, and overdevelopment have taken a toll on rivers and streams worldwide by moving them, reducing shade, and allowing sedimentation and pollution. A healthy riparian zone can slow the river's speed, lower erosion, provide a system for cleaning water, and provide food and fresh water to wildlife, thus balancing the ecosystem. Some of the tell tail signs of an excellent riparian zone are large old trees; these trees provide shade, help regulate the river's temperature, and their root system can help stabilize the banks and slow the moving water by growing into the rivers. River banks are another good indicator of a healthy river, with deep banks keeping the river from changing direction and lots of vegetation along them to help control the runoff and sedimentation and aid in processing out impurities out of the water. Rapids are also a positive sign of a healthy river. They help put Oxygen into the water, and Oxygen is another way of cleansing water as it helps to break down impurities. Deep pools and fallen trees are good for wildlife that lives in the water by providing shelter and a way of staying out of the current for rest. Water is the building block of the world's ecosystem and the most valuable natural capital.