Native vegetation hugs and protects the streambanks from erosion and gently covers everything below in a cooling shade. Seasonal visitors find ample breeding sites and use the river's flow as migration routes. The easy flow of California's rivers even aids in the replenishment and filtering of groundwater, helping us all to stay hydrated and healthy. Riparian plants can help filter contaminants from the soil and water, and their lush vegetation stores carbon which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere- an invaluable defense against climate change. Finally, the natural beauty and recreation opportunities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing make riparian areas attractive to all.