Rivers and riparian areas in national and state parks refer to the freshwater resources, including rivers, creeks, and streams, as well as the vegetation and ecosystems that are found along their banks. The National Park Service (NPS) and state park agencies have a mission to preserve, protect, and interpret these natural resources.
Many national and state parks have significant river and riparian resources, which provide important habitats for a wide range of plants and animals, as well as opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, rafting, and kayaking. Many of these parks also have designated wilderness areas, where human activities such as motorized use and development are not allowed to protect the delicate ecosystem and natural resources.
The NPS and state park agencies have a responsibility to protect and preserve these resources, and to provide opportunities for visitors to learn about and experience river and riparian resources. This can include ranger-led tours, educational programs, and interpretive exhibits. They also have regulations in place to protect these resources from overuse, pollution, and other forms of damage, while balancing the need for recreational opportunities.
Overall, rivers and riparian areas play an important role in maintaining biodiversity, providing recreational opportunities and influencing regional weather patterns and water cycle. They are also an important source of drinking and irrigation water for local communities. The NPS and state park agencies have a mission to preserve, protect, and interpret these resources, and have regulations in place to protect these resources from overuse, pollution, and other forms of damage, while balancing the need for recreational opportunities.