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Very often, riparian zones contain the largest
trees, which are most attractive to logging companies. This is because the soil is exceptionally rich: riparian zones are usually at low
elevations, so nutrients wash downslope and downstream and collect in these areas. Plants grow very well in this rich, moist soil.
However, where there are fast-moving rivers, riparian zones are extremely susceptible to erosion, and once destroyed are very difficult
to replace. This makes them very unsuitable locations for logging. These areas are so important for wildlife habitat, plant distribution,
nutrient movement, and bird or mammal migration stops, that we can't afford to lose them to poor timber practices.
A stream through a tropical cloud forest. Photo courtesy Naomi Woods. |
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riparian zones -- page 4 of 4
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