Water Resources

Natural Flood & Erosion Control

• Provide flood storage and conveyance
• Reduce flood velocities
• Reduce flood peaks
• Reduce sedimentation

Surface Water Quality Maintenance

• Filter nutrients and impurities from runoff
• Process organic wastes
• Moderate temperature of water

Groundwater Recharge

• Promote infiltration and aquifer recharge
• Reduce frequency and duration of low surface flows

Biologic Resources

Biological Productivity

• Support high rate of plant growth
• Maintain biodiversity
• Maintain integrity of ecosystem

Fish and Wildlife Habitats

• Provide breeding and feeding grounds
• Create and enhance waterfowl habitat
• Protect habitats for rare and endangered species

Societal Resources

Harvest of Wild & Cultivated Products

• Enhance agricultural lands
• Provide sites for aquaculture
• Restore and enhance forest lands

Recreational Opportunities

• Provide areas for active and passive uses
• Provide open space
• Provide aesthetic pleasure

Areas for Scientific Study and Outdoor Education

• Contain cultural resources (historic and archaeological sites)
• Provide opportunities for environmental and other studies

Find out more about floodplains HERE.

Learn about the consequences caused by shoreline hardening HERE.