There is appropriate organic matter in soil. There is diversity of plant species with a variety of root depths. Upland swales have vegetation cover or density greater than that of adjacent uplands. There are vigorous, desirable plants. Riparian vegetation captures sediment, and provides forage, habitat and bio-diversity.
Water quality is improved or maintained.
Stable soils store and release water slowly. Vegetation is dominated by an appropriate mix of native or desirable introduced species. Vigorous, desirable plants are present. There is vegetation with diverse age class structure, appropriate vertical structure, and adequate composition, cover, and density. Streambank vegetation is present and is comprised of species and communities that have root systems capable of withstanding high streamflow events.