Researchers at the university of georgia have evaluated trends in streamside forests in areas within roughly 400 feet of the state’s streams and rivers. a decline in streamed forests is evident across much of the state. between 1974 and 2005, 41 of the state’s 52 large watersheds showed declines in riparian forests. the greatest losses were in the upper chattahoochee, middle savannah, upper ocmulgee, and middle chattahoochee. stream-side or riparian land lies directly along rivers, streams, and other bodies of water and provide benefit to aquatic ecosystems. most specifically, stream-side forests affect the trout populations in north georgia. how? a) trees and shrubs provide both food and shelter for the trout. tree roots provide a bedding place, while the plant life in general, is a source of nutrition. b) riparian vegetation to reduce the impact of invasive species which may compete with local fish, especially trout, for the resources needed for survival. c) trees and shrubs provide shade, which keeps the water temperature cooler. lower temperatures allow the water to hold more oxygen, which in turn creates a healthier habitat for the trout. d) riparian vegetation traps and removes pollutants from the water. trout are particularly susceptible to water pollutants. there is a direct correlation between pollutants and trout death.