Arkansas Watershed Education

The Ozark region is a karst topography characterized by sinkholes, caves, underground streams and aquifers that supply our wells and springs. Sinkholes - natural surface depressions or drainage points - serve to conduct surface water to underground passages. The comparatively rapid transmission of groundwater flow through sinkholes in karst provides little opportunity for natural filtering or other purifying effects. As a result, surface pollutants rapidly enter our ground water polluting our wells and springs.

The vegetation growing along a stream bank is known as a riparian zone. riparian zones play an integral role in protecting water quality and ecological integrity and diversity. They provide shade and food for aquatic habitat and trap and break down pesticides, fertilizers and other pollutants. Even partial removal can lead to severe erosion. Protection of streamside vegetation is critical to protecting our streams.

"Friends of the North Fork and White Rivers, Inc." is an Arkansas non-profit organization 501(c)(3) devoted to creating an on-going dialogue where individuals, groups, and government agencies can work together to restore, enhance and conserve these beautiful rivers.