Wetlands and riparian areas play crucial roles as fish and wildlife habitat. They also act as filters to trap pollution from upland sources before it reaches rivers, streams, and lakes. Wetlands perform many functions essential to the overall health of a watershed. Riparian areas are broadly defined as those areas that border a waterbody. They range in size from a few feet on either side of a small stream to several miles wide on large river segments.
Riparian areas are rich in biodiversity and form critical links between land and water.
Many riparian areas have been degraded, causing erosion, habitat loss, and more pollution. The Action Plan addresses this rapidly disappearing resource and the importance of healthy ecosystems by encouraging Federal agencies to dedicate Federal funds to showcase demonstration projects. Agencies have also taken steps to strengthen wetlands mitigation and restoration projects. The Challenge 21 Initiative, supported by the Action Plan, combines flood hazard mitigation with river restoration. Communities, Tribes, and local watershed groups are also mobilizing in an effort to protect, restore, and expand the Nation's wetlands and riparian areas.