Living Near the Stream
Riparian Definition
Riparian Area is the area of land on the banks of a water body. Due to its proximity to water, it can support a unique and diverse ecosystem. They are also referred to as vegetated buffer areas that include many types of grass, shrubs, and trees that are vital wildlife habitats. Riparian areas can increase property value! A healthy riparian zone can prevent erosion, improve water quality, and reduce flooding. If you are lucky enough to live along Joseph Creek, try to identity the riparian zone and keep reading to find out how you can enhance it!
Image Source: https://www.gov.mb.ca/mr/plups/pdf/riparian_area_guide.pdf
No mow zone!
Naturalize your shoreline by not mowing near the water’s edge. Try not mowing 2-3 meters from the shoreline but more is better. Not mowing will help native plant species re-establish, thus increasing habitat and stabilizing the banks.
Planting
Enhance the habitat by planting in your riparian zone but make sure the plants are native! Invasive species can be harmful to the ecosystem because they can out-compete native species that wildlife depends on. Planting shrubs, like prickly rose and red-osier dogwood, within a few meters of the water’s edge will help prevent erosion and increase diversity. Check out Nupqu’s native plant inventory for a list of species found in our region.