For purposes of this chapter, "a regulated riparian habitat" is defined by the riparian classification maps adopted by the board. These habitats are generally characterized by vegetation that is different in plant species composition or an increase in the size and/or density of vegetation as compared to upland areas and occur in association with regulatory floodplains through which waters flow at least periodically, as well as any spring, cienega, lake, watercourse, river, stream, creek, wash, arroyo, or other body of water. These communities represent a continuum of plant species' response to available moisture, and can be subdivided into hydroriparian, mesoriparian, and xeroriparian classifications as well as identification as important riparian areas providing ecological connectivity and biological corridors.
A. Hydroriparian. Riparian habitats generally associated with perennial watercourses and/or springs. Plant communities are dominated by obligate or preferential wetland plant species such as willow and cottonwood.
B. Mesoriparian. Riparian habitats generally associated with perennial or intermittent watercourses or shallow groundwater. Plant communities may be dominated by species that are also found in drier habitats (e.g., mesquite); but contain some preferential riparian plant species such as ash or netleaf hackberry.
C. Xeroriparian. Riparian habitats generally associated with an ephemeral water supply. These communities typically contain plant species also found in upland habitats; however, these plants are typically larger and/or occur at higher densities than adjacent uplands. Xeroriparian habitat is further divided into four subclasses for Class A, B, C, and D habitat as defined in the mitigation standards approved by the Board as maintained by the floodplain administrator. Mitigation in xeroriparian habitat is to be determined based at least on total vegetative volume (TVV) as provided within the mitigation standards as adopted by the board as well as replacement of other lost riparian habitat functions necessary to sustain riparian habitat.
D. Important Riparian Areas. Important riparian areas occur along the major river systems and provide critical watershed and water resources management functions as well as providing a framework for landscape linkages and biological corridors. Important riparian areas are valued for their higher water availability, vegetation density, and biological productivity, compared to adjacent uplands. Important riparian areas are essential for floodplain management and every effort should be made to protect, restore, and enhance the structure and functions of these areas including hydrological, geomorphological, and biological functions.
(Ord. 2005 FC-2 § 2 (part), 2005; Ord. 1999 FC-1 § 1 (part), 1999; Ord. 1994 FC-2 (part), 1994: Ord. 1988 FC-2 Art. 10 (B), 1988)