9461

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 9461
• Author: Colorado Riparian Association.
• Title: Colorado Guide
• USFW Year: 2001.
• USFW - Doc Type: Stream Corridor.
• Copyright Material: NO

Unhealthy Stream Corridors
Some indicators of unstable stream channels:
• Channel widening
• Unvegetated, eroding stream banks
• Channel downcutting
• Increased silt/clay on channel bottom
• Inability to overflow during spring runoff
• Increased or decreased stream flow
• Increased or decreased sediment supply
Key points illustrated in the graphics
• The bare stream banks are unstable and contribute excessive amounts
of sediment to the channel, especially during floods.
• The downcutting is probably causing the adjacent water table to drop,
thereby drying out the riparian area.
• Vegetation will establish very slowly on the vertical banks, thereby
perpetuating bank erosion problems
Graphics by Montana Department of Environmental Quality
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