Caused by erosion, steep banks effect the overall structure of the stream. It is an elevated geological formation by the side of a waterway that is caused by increased rate of erosion from human impact. Although erosion is a normal part of a healthy stream, human impacts have increased the rate of erosion to unhealthy levels by river redirection around infrastructure or debris in the channel. As a result of excess erosion, the stream widens and the temperature rises. This therefore effects organisms living in the water.

Overhanging vegetation is the amount of plants hanging over the side of the stream. This overhanging vegetation plays an important role in keeping the stream cool and providing shelter and food for the organisms living in the stream. Without this vegetation, the waterway will heat up causing the stream to become shallower. Native organisms have difficulties adapting to higher temperatures, therefore less overhanging vegetation results in fewer species. 

Planting trees and shrubs around the bank can increase the overhanging vegetation. Additional plant life has many benefits for the wildlife and water in the creek. With shade cover from plants, it decreases the temperature for trout to survive. It also drops leaves and other debris into the water that feeds aquatic animals. The roots from the plants also hold the bank to increase strength.