Typical culvert construction blocks juvenile passage. New construction techniques allow for juvenile and adult passage. If a structure is damaged once by flooding, rebuilding it in the same location leaves it prone to future flooding, as well as interfering with the floodplain's ability to store water. Balancing cut and fill in floodplain construction guarantees that the same amount of water storage will exist after new development as did before. BMPs can significantly reduce erosion due to development activities, thus improving water quality and reducing impacts on fish habitat.
Septic systems are often unstable and leak-prone.
Keeping septic systems out of the floodplain and as far as possible from riparian corridors reduces the likelihood that a leak will contaminate surface water or impact water quality. Development outside of the floodplain does not decrease the floodplain's storage capacity and is less likely to suffer damage during flood events. Greater distances between impervious surfaces and a waterway allow for slower runoff rates and better recharge, which in turn reduces erosion and sedimentation. Restricting activities that disturb wetlands ensures the proper functioning of those wetlands. Protecting riparian corridors helps to maintain water quality, fish habitat, and stable banks.