Repairin' the Riparian EarthCache

This earthcache is located in Assiniboine Park.

An earthcache is a special geological location that people can visit to learn about a unique feature of the Earth. As such, there is no physical container and no log book. Answers must be submitted to GG+J by clicking on the link at the top of the page. 

WHAT IS A RIPARIAN FOREST?

First, the term "riparian" refers to the banks of a natural waterway. A "riparian reserve" is a buffer of land on either side of a stream, creek, river, or other waterway. This strip of land (often called a "riparian corridor" for its shape along a waterway) is allowed to grow naturally with native vegetation including grasses, mosses, flowers, shrubs, and trees. These riparian reserves then act as a buffer between the waterway and whatever is on either side (often crop land, grazing land, or developed land - in this case, parkland).

Runoff from any of these adjacent lands is filtered through the soil and root systems of the riparian reserve, and these same root systems stabilize the banks. By providing a buffer zone around the waterway, a riparian reserve protects water quality and preserves and improves habitat for plants and animals.

The natural curves of the waterway (preserved by not artificially straightening it) and woody debris within the riverbed help to slow the velocity of the flowing water which reduces erosion. In addition, the buffer lands hold much rainwater and runoff water allowing it to slowly trickle down to replenish the underwater aquifer. The diagram below shows various zones of a riparian reserve and the benefits of each.

LOGGING REQUIREMENTS:

1. The riverbank along the Assiniboine has suffered erosion over time, due to a damaged Riparian corridor. List 3 things that have caused the corridor to be damaged, resulting in erosion of the riverbank.

2. The Restoration Project is planting and protecting native Riparian trees in an attempt to stabilize the riverbank. List 4 common Riparian species.

3. How does allowing fallen trees and woody debris to remain along the riverbank have a positive effect against erosion?

4. A short distance away, at Waypoint 2, you will see something on the ground. What is it, and approximately how large is it?

5. According to the diagram above, which zone do you think the object at Waypoint 2 falls into?

6. Pictures of you and/or your GPSr are helpful, but not required.

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