Area of land along the banks of a stream which often exhibits slightly different vegetation and habitats than the surrounding landscape Because of this variation, riparian areas are considered valuable wildlife habitat and important for the protection of water quality
{s} pertaining to the banks of a river or body of water; located on the bank of a river or body of water
Land adjacent to perennial streams, lakes, and reservoirs and including other well developed riparian vegetation (primarily intermediate streams) This land is specifically delineated by the transition between the aquatic ecosystem and the adjacent terrestrial ecosystem and defined by soil characteristics and distinctive vegetation communities that require free and unbound water Areas include stream channels, lakes, wetlands, and adjacent floodplains and riparian ecosystems They include all areas within a horizontal distance of 100 feet from the edge of perennial streams or other water bodies