Maintains water quality Dense vegetation filters soil particles, agriculture chemicals, and organic or commercial fertilizers from farmland run-off water. Riparian plant communities bordering streams and rivers shade the water, decreasing temperature and increasing water purity by inhabiting algae growth. In the spring the snow, shaded by riparian vegetation, melts slowly, increasing the amount of water that soaks into the soil. This slow melt enhances surface moisture and replenishes groundwater reserves, while reducing erosion damaged caused by flooding. They come for water, food, cover and relief from weather extremes.
Riparian areas provide critical habitat for deer, moose, elk and pronghorn antelope.
The dense trees and shrubs shelter pathways used by these animals as they move to other habitats. Many of Saskatchewan's birds depend on riparian habitats during some period in their life cycle. Fish depend on healthy riparian conditions. Dense vegetation filters agriculture run-off, resulting in pure, clear water. Water of this quality is necessary to support the plant and insect life that many aquatic animals, such as fish, turtles and frogs, require for food and cover.