Riparian land includes the riverbank and land adjoining creeks and flood-runners, areas surrounding dams and lakes and also the floodplain, including billabongs and wetlands that connect to the river in times of flood.

Riparian land is generally the most productive part of the landscape, and acts as the last line of defence for the waterway from land-based activities. T he health of riparian land directly influences the health of the waterway, so it is often a fine balancing act between sustaining production while maintaining the condition of these sensitive lands.

For native fish and other aquatic life the grasses, shrubs and trees growing in these areas assist in the regulation of the waterway. Trees provide shade to the waterway, helping to maintain an ambient water temperature. Shade provides a dappling effect on the water’s surface, offering protection from overhead predators. Shade also reduces the build up of nuisance aquatic weed. Excessive weed growth can reduce the amount of light penetrating the water, and as weeds start to break down oxygen is used up, which can ultimately lead to fish kills.

Riparian vegetation acts as a natural buffer slowing down run-off, allowing sediments, nutrients and soil-bound particles to become trapped. T his ‘polishing’ effect ensures high sediment loads do not enter the waterway and smother native fish habitat.

Deep-rooted native vegetation helps bind riverbank soils, reducing the rate of bank erosion and loss of precious productive soils to the river. S oil erosion can increase water turbidity (the muddiness of the water), reducing water quality.

Riparian vegetation provides an important food source for aquatic life. Fallen leaves, fruits, insects and twigs form an essential component of in-stream food webs. Undercut banks and exposed roots, in addition to fallen timber, also provide essential habitat for fish and other aquatic species.

Intact riparian vegetation also benefits property productivity: providing windbreaks for crops; shade and shelter for stock, and; helping reduce the loss of productive soils.