Riparian areas are dynamic and ever-changing environments. Stream-channels may be swept clean of vegetation during floods as sediments are shifted from place to place. Fast-cutting water may cut into the banks of a stream, undercutting existing vegetation. Classification of California's riparian communities is difficult because of the diversity and complexity of the communities and the great alterations imposed by human activities. Each of these is variable.
Riparian Plants Click on the name of a plant for a larger view.
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