Benefits of Floodplains
  • ​​​​Flood Protection and Erosion Control: Floodplains provide a river more room as it rises. They accommodate temporary storage of flood water, reducing flood peaks and erosion potential. ​
  • Improved Water Quality: When inundated with water, floodplains act as natural filters, removing excess sediment and nutrients. Outside of a river's main channel, water flow is slowed and has more time to seep into the ground where it can replenish underground water sources. 
  • Improved Wildlife Habitat: Floodplains are home to some of the most biologically rich habitats on Earth, including marshes and wetlands. They provide spawning grounds for fish and critical areas of rest and foraging for migrating waterfowl and birds.  
  • ​Recreational Opportunities: Many outdoor recreational activities – like fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, wildlife watching and boating – are made possible by and greatly enhanced by the natural processes of rivers and healthy floodplains.
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