The most utilized places within the watershed, both by domestic livestock and wildlife, as well as humans, are riparian areas. Unfortunately most of these well-intended uses have occurred together, resulting in negative effects, including the lowering of water tables, stream channel erosion, exotic plant encroachment, increased water temperatures, concentrated runoff and increased sediment from road construction, and vegetation density and composition changes. Riparian areas were both indirectly and directly affected by the Sanford Fire.

Four hundred twenty-two acres (422) of streamside cottonwoods burned during the Sanford. Cottonwoods provide important cover for small mammals and birds, and also catch sediment before it enters the stream. Cottonwood riparian systems are significant for stream bank stabilization and fisheries habitat.

Because of their proximity to wet areas, cottonwoods and riparian areas have remained fairly unaffected by historic fire. However, recently fire suppression has resulted in encroachment of exotic plants and noxious weeds into these zones, outcompeting native stream bank vegetation. Although newly sprouting cottonwoods are abundant throughout burn areas, long-term monitoring of competing plants and grazing-related problems will ensure re-vegetation of cottonwoods along riparian areas.

Lupine acts to stabilize soils both in riparian areas as well as forested areas.