RIPARIAN ZONE CLASSIFICATION IMPROVES MANAGEMENT OF STREAM WATER QUALITY AND AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS

摘要

Riparian zones can perform a variety of functions that can be managed to protect the habitat and water quality of streams from the effects of land use. However, their biophysical roles and human uses vary with landform and position in the drainage network from the headwaters to the sea. To reduce the resulting confusion and provide a framework for management, a pilot riparian zone classification was developed for two diverse river systems in the Waikato region of New Zealand. Ten classes of riparian zones were identified that differed sufficiently in their biophysical features to require different management. Generic "first steps" and "best practical" riparian management recommendations were developed for these. The classification is improving the understanding of the potential and limitations of riparian zone management as a watershed management tool among water managers and land owners, and provides a basis for targeting and costing management actions.