Requirements include:

• the availability of suitable freshwater habitat for some part of the life cycle.
• enough riparian vegetation to protect aquatic habitats from the impacts of adjacent land uses.

Threats include:

• loss of riparian vegetation resulting in:
  
  • higher water temperatures.
  • increased inputs of sediment, toxin and nutrients.
  • loss of habitat complexity.
  • increased erosion.
• alterations to natural hydrology (water budget) resulting from:
  
  • watercourse diversion.
  • floodplain dyking.
  • excessive ground or surface water withdrawals.
  • increased impermeable area.
  • drainage improvements that lower water tables.
• reduced inputs of terrestrial food items (e.g. 'insect rain').
• excessive inputs of toxins, sediment and nutrients.

Strategies

Maintain riparian reserve zones

• Acquire habitat by purchase or via dedication during the land subdivision, development permit or rezoning processes.
• Require conservation covenants on habitats during the land subdivision, development permit or rezoning processes.
• Require large setbacks from sensitive aquatic habitats using a zoning by-law or the subdivision and development permitting processes.
• Restore riparian habitats on local government lands.
• Restrict tree cutting and land clearing in riparian areas using development permit area conditions or a bylaw.
• Encourage the establishment of native riparian vegetation on private lands through tax incentives, education, and the provision of plants and assistance.