Floodplains are the lands adjacent to a river that become regularly flooded during high river flows. As a result of this periodic flooding, floodplains are among the most biodiverse and productive lands on the planet. Floodplains also reduce downstream flooding, filter excessive nutrients, and replenish groundwater. Healthy mountain meadows function similarly, reducing peak floods, storing water, and improving water quality and groundwater recharge.

Unfortunately, connected floodplains and healthy meadows are scarce throughout the country. American Rivers is leading a national effort to reconnect rivers to their floodplains and restore healthy meadows through our advocacy, partnership-building and project management. The resources below support American Rivers’ approach to floodplain and meadow restoration.

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Floodplain Restoration Resources