Floodplains are dynamic natural systems. The natural processes of periodic flooding, accompanied by erosion and deposition, bring changes to the topography, soils, vegetation, and physical features (such as meanders, braided channels and oxbow lakes) within these areas over time.
Floodplains provide a wide range of benefits to the ecosystem and community that include:

• Flood storage and erosion control–offer a broad area for streams and rivers to spread out and accommodate temporary storage of flood water, reducing flood peaks and erosion potential


• Water quality maintenance – reducing sediment loads, filtering nutrients and impurities, and moderating water temperature


• Groundwater recharge


• Biological productivity – providing fertile soils with high rate of plant growth and diversity, richer agricultural harvests, and healthier forests


• Habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife, including rare and endangered species


• Recreational opportunities – providing areas for active and passive activities, supporting the economic base


• Open space