Evaluating riprapping and other streambank stabilization techniques

Stabilization of streambanks along creeks and rivers throughout California is an important means of protecting agricultural land from erosion. Riprapping, willow planting, and other methods of bank stabilization effective in curtailing erosion are often considered limiting to the establishment of native riparian woodlands. Recent research has suggested that retention of natural woodlands is an important means of preventing bank erosion. Therefore, stabilization techniques that do not prevent the establishment of riparian woodland species should provide additional streambank protection. The study reported here evaluates the influence of several streambank stabilization methods on the establishment of riparian woodlands and compares treated areas and native streamside woodlands with regard to species composition and density.