Riparian Corridor Management

Riparian zones (areas adjacent to lakes, streams and rivers,) have the capacity to buffer rivers and other waters from non- point source runoff from agricultural, urban, or other land uses. Healthy riparian zones can absorb sediments, chemical nutrients, and other substances contained in nonpoint source runoff. They also provide for aquifer recharge, diverse habitats and water storage and release. A healthy, functioning riparian area and associated uplands dramatically increase benefits such as fish and wildlife habitat, erosion control, forage, late season stream flow, and water quality. Management decisions must be designed with these processes in mind.

Riparian Corridor Management (RCM) is a system that allows for the protection of water resources while still allowing sustainable mixed use of surrounding riparian area. It is a combination of techniques that protect and in some cases, improve water quality and biodiversity. These techniques include, but are not limited to:

River Friendly Lawn Care
Riparian Buffer Zones
Streambank Stabilization
Woody Debris Management
River Maintenance

Interested in learning more about how you can learn about and use RCM techniques? Contact the Wayne County Department of Public Services (WCDPS) - Environmental Services Group (ESG) at (734) 326-3936.

• Riparian Corridor Management Principles and Practices
• Riparian Corridor Management Brochure
• Riparian Corridor Streambank Management
• Riparian Corridor Woody Debris Management

Project Files

The following profiles document projects undertaken by the WCDPS-ESG as part of it's commitment to riparian corridor management.

• Project Profile – Inkster Road Grow Zone 2006
• Project Profile – City of Wayne WDM 201
• Project Profile – Edison Elementary Grow Zone 2007
• Project Profile – Ford Road Outer Drive Grow Zone 2006
• Project Profile – GLC Brownstown 2005
• Project Profile – GLC Flat Rock Silver Creek 2004
• Project Profile – GLC Rockwood Huron River 2005
• Project Profile – GLC Taylor Frank and Poet 2005
• Project Profile – Bennett Arboretum Grow Zone 2006
• Project Profile – Johnson Creek SSP 2001
• Project Profile – Smith School Streambank 2006