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Text Description of Riparian Planting Zones

Riparian Elevations, Lowest to Highest
  1. Average water elevation
  2. Bankfull discharge elevation
  3. Overbank elevation
  4. Flood prone elevation
Riparian Zones
  1. Toe zone. This zone is closest to the water, and is below average water elevation.
  2. Bank zone. Lies between average water and bankfull discharge elevations.
  3. Overbank zone. Extends from bankfull discharge elevation to overbank elevation.
  4. Transitional zone. Extends from overbank elevation to flood prone elevation.
  5. Upland zone. This zone is furthest from the water, and is above flood prone elevation.

Diagram of a streambank shows relative locations of zones and elevations.

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007