Riparian Areas

Question 1

Define riparian area

Answer 1

transitional zone of decreasing soil moisture between a stream, lake, or wetland, and the upland forest

Question 2

importance to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems

Answer 2

Aquatic: buffer zone, nutrients, CWD, shade, temperature moderator, erosion, filter, sedimentation
Terrestrial: cover, cooler, wildlife trees, species at risk, corridors, aesthetics

Question 3

Why are RA’s declining?

Answer 3

due to flooding by dams

Question 4

Why do streams get the most protection?

Answer 4

streams are spawning habitat

Question 5

what is an RMA based on?

Answer 5

channel width, fish presence, community watershed

Question 6

difference between RMZ and RRZ

Answer 6

MZ: constraints to harvesting apply
RZ:harvesting not permitted

Question 7

management considerations when considering reserve zones in the kootenays?

Answer 7

minimize/prevent impacts on forest dynamics, stream channel dynamics, aquatic ecosystems, water quality of streams, lakes and wetlands
maintain sustainability of wildlife habitat and vegetation adjacent to streams