The resulting sedimentation alters water quality. Clearing of riparian and streamside vegetation may also remove important wildlife habitat. The natural functioning of floodplains has already been altered by constructing some facilities. Flow patterns may change, floodflows may be constricted, and the flow velocity accelerated. Such changes result in increased stream bank and channel erosion.
Timber harvesting can significantly affect riparian area values.
Constructing skid roads, log landings, and bridges disturbs the soil, and reduces the sediment-filtering ability of the forest floor. The removal of streamside overhead cover can increase water temperature. All of these adverse effects can be reduced or eliminated by limiting access of soil-disturbing activities within the riparian area. When it is necessary to use these areas, additional erosion control and sediment detention can be used. Locating roads in riparian areas is guided by minimum setback distance, depending on slope, that a road must be from streams and lakes.