Types of Riparian Vegetation
(Information compiled by Lina Polvi)
Vegetation in unglaciated partially confined valleys will be in transition from terrestrial to more aquatic-dominated species. The terrestrial and riparian species present will be determined by the elevation and other possible factors including disturbance and biotic competition. The terrestrial vegetation will range from Lower Montane to some Upper Montane species, including Douglas fir, Ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, Rocky Mountain juniper, and other woody shrubs. Dominant riparian species found in this area are coyote willow, western birch, alder, narrow-leaf cottonwood, and blue spruce.
Controls on Riparian Vegetation Growth
Vegetation growth will depend on:
Bed gradient of the channel
Steeper channels will have a smaller band of riparian vegetation.
Degree of confinement of the valley
More confined valleys will also have a smaller band of riparian vegetation.