Riparian ecosystems exist in the transition between land and water.
Scientists call these types of transitional areas ecotones. By connecting
two distinct ecosystems and including characteristics of both, ecotones often support a rich diversity of plant and animal species. This riparian woodland ecotone includes trees that depend on water from Blieders Creek, as well as fish and insects that find food and shelter in the roots and shade of plants that grow along the water’s edge.

Our efforts to control the speed and volume of water flowing across the site are helping this riparian habitat to thrive by protecting it from destructive floodwaters. At the same time, the plants themselves are minimizing erosion and stabilizing the banks of Blieders Creek.