Riverbank erosion is one of the most prevalent and misunderstood problems on the Connecticut River and its tributaries. While it is the nature of rivers and streams to flood and change course, human activities are having an increasing impact on river behavior. The Challenge of Erosion in the Connecticut River Watershed Learn more about this complex river process. Browse CRJC's set of fact sheets, below. More on River Assessment & Restoration RIVER DYNAMICS AND EROSION What makes a river behave as it does? There are many causes of bank erosion; what factors in a basin affect erosion in the stream that drains it? How can you and your community help prevent it? PERMITS Remember, permits are needed for any work on a riverbank, but this can get tricky in a waterway shared by two states. This guide provides information on the different types of permits and how they may be obtained. STREAMBANK STABILIZATION Here is a quick, illustrated guide to a variety of approaches, the advantages and disadvantages of each and the best time of year for installation. Each site is different, and requires a practiced eye: here you can find the people and the programs that can help. RIPARIAN BUFFERS Find out how shrubs, trees, and/or grass, growing along the banks of a river or stream, do many jobs: filter polluted runoff, provide habitat and privacy, and improve the stream communities they shelter. What are the features of the better buffer, and how should it be managed? What help is available? FIELD ASSESSMENT Here is a handy sheet to help you locate factors causing or resisting erosion at your site. FLUVIAL EROSION HAZARDS Especially in the hilly terrain of Vermont and New Hampshire, damaging erosion and flooding can occur together when steeply falling streams are swollen by heavy storms. Floodplains can be dangerous places for human investment.  (Note: To view or print these fact sheets, Adobe Acrobat Reader must be installed on your computer. Download it for free: ) Other Publications on River Morphology