OCR Text |
Show a meander corridor and include the establishment of parkways and trails. 14.6 Issues and Recommendations 14.6.1 Wetlands and Riparian Habitat Issue - Existing wetlands and riparian habitat are being lost or impacted due to development. Discussion - The Jordan river Basin has about 28,100 acres of wetlands and riparian areas. The majority is contiguous with the Jordan River or its tributaries. Riparian areas include land directly influenced by sufficient water to sustain growth. Even though the wetlands/ riparian areas account for a minor part of the total land area in the basin, the vast majority of wildlife species are associated with them at some point in their life cycle. As such, they are important areas to wildlife. When riparian areas are in good condition, they provide stream bank stability, maintain channel contours, regulate water flow and enhance water quality. A good riparian community has abundant and diverse plant life covering most of the soil and showing a spread in age distribution. Where spring areas have been impacted by wildlife and livestock, rehabilitation should be investigated and pursued. Recommendation - The Division of Wildlife Resources should identify wetlands and riparian areas with significant values to aid in their protection and preservation. • 14- 6 |