For example, the south side provides most of the shade for a brook flowing in an east-west direction. The north side may not offer much shade, but is the side favoured by overwintering deer since it faces south. Blowdown resulting from poor cutting practices near stream edge. Woodlot owners considering SMZs along waterways must also consider wind and storm damage. The same is true of younger, closely spaced stands with small, competing root systems.
Softwoods are shallow-rooted.
These small brooks cane important habitat for young trout - even where the water partially dries up in summer. Younger stands of trees along a watercourse can be cleaned or spaced to strengthen their roots. Where over-mature wood borders a stream or lake, the SMZ may have to be widened to minimize blowdown. A few trees falling on a brook can create good fish habitat by creating pools. If a SMZ of overmature trees is left, the softwood could be harvested gradually.