Floodplains provide invaluable ecosystem services including critical habitat for the health, growth, and survival of Pacific salmon and steelhead, flood damage mitigation, improved water quality, vital habitat for a suite of flora and fauna, recreational opportunities, and economically valuable farmlands.

Population growth and related development needs continue to modify floodplains and excaberate seasonal anomalies in stream flows. These changes have potentially adverse consequences for people, property, habitats, and the species that depend on streams and floodplains.

This Vital Sign tells us about the extent and condition of streams, rivers, and associated floodplain and riparian habitats that are important to salmon recovery and overall Puget Sound health.