The riparian zone is defined as the transition zone between the terrestrial and aquatic environment. Found along lakes, rivers, streams, drains, and wetlands, a well-established riparian zone plays an important role for establishing a healthy ecosystem. Diverse vegetation within a riparian zone including plants, shrubs, trees, and/or grasses is essential for protecting the integrity of the aquatic environment. Healthy riparian zones provide:

• A natural filtration system preventing pollutants from entering the waterway (i.e. chemicals, pesticides, animal waste, high nutrient inputs, etc.),
• A natural means for protecting water quality within the aquatic environment,
• A means to control or alleviate erosion by stabilizing banks, and
• A means to reduce downstream flooding by slowing water movement along the boundaries of a waterway

Riparian rehabilitation means restoring the riparian zone so that it can function properly to protect water quality and provide both fish and wildlife with increased habitat protection.  At AAE Tech Services Inc. we conduct assessments of riparian zones and are involved in developing innovative strategies to restore riparian vegetation along  aquatic environments.

Representative Studies

Swan Creek Watershed Riparian and Aquatic Assessment

Riparian assessments were conducted along waterways within the Swan Creek Watershed.  Riparain zones were classified based on a number of parameters including size, vegetation types, land use practices, and the presence/absence of cattle along the various segments of the waterway. 

Lake Francis Watershed Riparian and Aquatic Assessment

Riparian assessments were conducted along waterways within the Swan Creek Watershed.  Riparain zones were classified based on a number of parameters including size, vegetation types, land use practices, and the presence/absence of cattle along the various segments of the waterway.

Dog Lake Watershed Riparian and Aquatic Assessment

Riparian assessments were conducted along waterways within the Dog Lake Watershed.  Riparian zones were classified based on a number of parameters including size, vegetation types, land use practices, and the presence/absence of cattle along the various segments of the waterway.

Mud Lake Drain Riparian Restoration

Installation of exclusion fencing to restrict livestock from entering waterways and degrading riparian zones.  A cattle crossing was installed to to provide livestock access to both sides of the creek while preventing direct access to the waterway.

Burnt Lake Drain Riparian Restoration

AAE Tech Services installed three spawning shoals in sections of Burnt Lake Drain to enhance fish spawning habitat.  Exclusion fencing was also installed to restrict livestock from entering and possibly degrading aquatic habitat conditions found within the waterway.

North Wagon Creek Drain Riparian Restoration

AAE Tech Services installed exclusion fencing and a cattle crossing to restrict livestock from entering and possibly degrading aquatic habitat within North Wagon Creek Drain.