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Watershed Conservation Plan - Destination Erie

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characteristics, and are important habitats for aquatic animals and wildlife (see 6.1 Animal Life). Topographic<br />

variability and elevation gradients relative to the local water table within the floodplain interact with periodic<br />

flood disturbance to promote the development of highly diverse plant communities (Campbell 1998). Thus,<br />

floodplains are highly dynamic features that contribute much to maintaining a high level of biological<br />

diversity in our watershed.<br />

In addition to supporting biological resources, floodplains are also important hydrologically, due to their<br />

location near the interface between streams and the local water table. They have an important role in<br />

groundwater recharge, and act as filters for runoff entering streams via overland flow. The vegetation on the<br />

floodplain helps absorb the energy of flowing water, traps sediment and floating debris, and helps reduce<br />

erosion of stream banks and the valley floor. In these respects, floodplains serve an important role in the<br />

protection of water quality (SRBC 2001). The study area

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