Because these unique systems are vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbance, species relying on them are declining. This amphibian is found in just five states in six isolated patches. The exact percentage of the , freshwater animal and plant species specific to headwaters is still unknown. Fortunately, there are many actions those who manage or own properties along headwater streams can take to help preserve them.
Maintaining riparian vegetation buffers along streams is a simple practice that does not require training or specialized equipment. Riparian buffers prevent stream erosion and help to mitigate increases in water temperature by providing shade for aquatic life and to remove pesticide and fertilizer contaminants from runoff prior to its entry into streams. Buffer widths may vary depending on site conditions slope, soil types , contaminant, or issue addressed.
For example, 4. The use of pesticides and fertilizers near riparian buffer zones should be limited, and only herbicides that are designated for use in aquatic habitats should be applied. On public properties, educational signage should be placed that explains the benefits of healthy streams and that describe the practices implemented for their protection. Municipal staff such as planning directors and city managers should be encouraged to develop guidelines and regulations that reduce the amount of impervious surface in new developments and preserve floodplain and riparian areas.
Additionally, using land in a way that slows water and allows it to infiltrate into the ground can prevent stream degradation. This means less impervious surface and more green spaces such as bioswales, rain gardens, and bioretention cells. Intact, healthy headwater streams are essential to maintaining water quality.
Without these properly functioning systems, flooding will affect homes and property values, drinking water will be compromised, and aquatic organisms will be imperiled.
As more habitat and natural space is lost to accommodate our growing population, preserving our headwater streams becomes even more imperative. Shorescaping freshwater shorelines. Jackson K. The Importance of Headwater Streams. LGP Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
Different plants and animals have evolved to thrive in streams. Plants often have strong root systems that act as anchors, and long, flexible stems that can move with the current. Fly larvae nibble on leaves that have fallen into the water, and the flies themselves later become fish food. Many fish have streamlined shapes that help them stay in position and keep them from being washed away by strong currents. Dams stop the natural flow of sediment and water, and prevent wildlife, nutrients, and water from flowing freely through the stream system.
Urban areas sometimes flush untreated sewage into streams, causing algal blooms that suffocate wildlife. Pollutants can wash into streams from farms and factories, and harm wildlife and humans who depend on the water. In response to these threats, scientists and conservationists are taking action.
Hydrologists study streams and how water quality and flow change over time. Conservationists can work with communities to revive stream basins.
Sandra Postel, a past National Geographic Freshwater Fellow, created a program that restored billions of gallons of water to river systems in North America. Also called a watershed. Also known as hydroelectricity or hydroelectric power. The audio, illustrations, photos, and videos are credited beneath the media asset, except for promotional images, which generally link to another page that contains the media credit.
The Rights Holder for media is the person or group credited. Tyson Brown, National Geographic Society. National Geographic Society. Over time the soil that a river deposits can build up and create new land areas! River deltas are land areas that are formed at the mouth or end of a river as the minerals and soil the river carries are deposited. Deltas are very rich in nutrients. Some of the best farmland on Earth can be found in river deltas.
Although river water makes up only about 0. Rivers are like roads. They carry water, organisms and important gases and nutrients to many areas. They also help drain rainwater and provide habitats for many species of plants and animals. As they make their way to the sea, rivers help shape the features of the Earth. Rivers are travel routes for people and provide the power for hydroelectric plants.
Headwater streams also provide food for downstream organisms. Stream insects also drift downstream and become important food for fish. So if you love watching dragonflies, fishing or simply drinking beer while someone else fishes—you must love small streams. Convincing you to love small streams and convincing political agendas are a bit different.
0コメント