This increases moisture infiltration into the soil and contributes to ground water recharge. Soil moisture reserves help to maintain crop and forage yield during dry periods which often occur during the growing season in Saskatchewan. Vegetation also reduces erosion and purifies water. The roots produced by trees, shrubs and grasses stabilize streambanks. Foliage, stems and litter intercept raindrops and slow the velocity of runoff and floodwater.
Vegetation also traps sediment and nutrient rich organic matter, enriching floodplain soils.
There is less leaching of nitrates and heavy metals into the water system, reducing the potential for toxicity problems and algal blooms. Improved water quality also benefits livestock and aquatic organisms. Healthy riparian plant communities reduce weed invasion and provide excellent forage for hay, livestock and wildlife. Seasonal Flooding A flood plain which is flooded annually is not a sign of a stream out of control or an inconvenience which is being eliminated by engineering. Rather, it is performing naturally.