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.