Rivers and Floodplains

Rivers are flowing bodies of water that move across the land, shaping the landscape over time. Floodplains are flat areas beside rivers that periodically flood when water levels rise during heavy rains or snowmelt. These floodplains act as natural buffers, absorbing excess water and reducing flood risks downstream. They also create rich environments for plants, animals, and human communities, offering fertile soil for agriculture. The interaction between rivers and floodplains is a key part of a natural system that sustains ecosystems and helps manage water flow in the environment.