Riparian Restoration

The riparian zone is the transition area between the aquatic environment and the terrestrial environment. Healthy riparian buffers with mature vegetation provide a wide range of critical ecological and water quality services.

Side by side comparison of mowed, first year growth and 5 to 10 year growth.

Removal of this native vegetative community and excessive mowing in these streamside areas degrade water quality and reduce wildlife habitat. By changing maintenance practices, adding “no-mow” buffers, and restoring natural vegetation along Austin’s waterways we can begin the process of healing our urban streams and providing a greenbelt network for wildlife and future generations.

Click here to learn more about riparian restoration, including how to develop a volunteer restoration plan and how to organize and lead volunteer restoration events.

Click here to learn more about engineered stream restoration