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 degrades water quality and reduce wildlife habitat. By changing maintenance practices, adding “Grow Zone” buffers, and restoring natural plants 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