Why are Riparian and Wetland Areas Important to Residents of Benton County?
Intact riparian areas can improve property values, stabilize eroding banks, enhance fish and many other wildlife habitat, improve water quality by filtering runoff/contaminants, and can protect against flood damage of property. Intact wetland areas can improve property values, increases water quality, store flood water, provide fish and wildlife habitat–many rare species rely on remaining wetlands for survival. Did you know: From 2004-2007 Benton County residents engaged in the Comprehensive Plan development with County Staff, Planning Commission and the Board of Commissioners adopted a policy to undertake a “Goal 5 process and adopt a protection program for significant riparian areas within 18 months of adoption of the plan amendments”. Residents’ also emphasize taking the appropriate steps for protecting headwaters of streams along with wetlands in Benton County.
