Riparian Habitat

Definition

Area of land directly adjacent to a stream or river, influenced by stream-induced or related processes.

Description

It includes the physical structure and associated vegetation of the areas associated with a watercourse which are commonly characterised by alluvial soils, and which are inundated of flooded to an extent and with a frequency sufficient to support vegetation of species with a composition and physical structure distinct from those of adjacent land areas.

Why are riparian habitats important?

Riparian habitats are protected under the National Water Act by means of the Reserve.