Some vertebrate species are strongly associated with riparian hardwoods, often because of the opportunities for cavity nesting or foraging. Amphibian diversity also appears high in shrubby, hardwood riparian areas. Concerns for riparian areas around small headwater streams focus on amphibians. Seven amphibians spend large portions of their lives in smaller streams. Not every stream is sensitive to forestry practices, but there may be sufficient information available to estimate the relative sensitivity of headwater streams.
Current guidelines are inadequate for some small headwater streams.
However, blanket prescriptions are ineffective, and any increased protection should be based on site-specific characteristics. Sometimes Ill Considered A sense of urgency regarding species declines has led to policy makers hastily applying findings to situations where they may not be applicable. The perceived urgency of taking action has led to certain policy and management changes in western forests that are ill-supported by regional data. Some directed and coordinated research is essential if the natural variability of forest systems is ever to be adequately understood. Part of the issue is monitoring well enough and long enough to learn from accrued experience.