American Rivers: (Wild)life depends on rivers
From Tributary to Floodplain, Rivers Connect, Protect, and Sustain Wildlife
Rivers provide critical habitat for wildlife, connectivity to food sources, and refuge from the impacts of climate change. As we continue to learn about the intricacies of our water systems and how they support biodiversity, it becomes clear that river protection is wildlife protection.
Here we explore the connections between rivers and wildlife. We examine threats such as fragmentation, water overallocation, and the loss of ecosystem services. We present science-informed conservation recommendations for decision makers and citizens. By better understanding the interdependency between rivers and wildlife, we can create effective river protection, restoration, and management plans that truly address the biodiversity crisis.