Natural & Beneficial Functions of Floodplains

In addition to the beauty afforded by our rivers and wetlands, these features offer many benefits. Floodplains help to dissipate wave forces, reduce frequency and duration of surface flow, provide habitat for fish, wildlife, and other vegetation, and filter various forms of runoff. Portions of the Neuse and Trent Rivers also serve as primary nursery areas for various species of fish. Fortunately, NC CAMA regulations protect these areas from undesirable development that would be detrimental to both the environment as well as the development itself.