Proper Functioning Condition (PFC)

What Are Riparian-Wetland Areas?

Riparian and wetland areas occur along water courses or waterbodies. They are different from the adjacent lands because of the unique soil and vegetation characteristics that are strongly influenced by free or unbound water in the soil. Riparian ecosystems occupy the transitional area between the upland and water ecosystems. Typical examples would include floodplains, streambanks, and lake shores. These are some of the most productive resources found on public and private lands, comprising less than two percent of the western landscape, yet highly prized by communities for their recreation, fish and wildlife, water supply, cultural, and historic values as well as for their economic values which stem from use in livestock production, timber harvest, and mineral extraction.

Proper Functioning Condition (PFC)

PFC is a qualitative method for assessing the condition of riparian-wetland areas. PFC describes both the assessment process and the on-the ground condition of a riparian-wetland area. PFC evaluates how well the physical processes are functioning through use of a checklist. This approach is a component of the Creeks and Communities strategy initiated by the USDI Bureau of Land Management, and USDA Forest Service, in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Creeks and Communities is based on the goal of bringing communities of people together to use a common vocabulary and understanding to evaluate the health and restoration needs of riparian-wetland areas.

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Last Modified: 07/23/2012