RB stream reaches are in Rosgen's (1996) 'B' stream category.  B streams are moderately entrenched, of moderate gradient (2-4%), and dominated by riffles.  At nearly 5% of total wetland area, RB reaches are the third most abundant and extensive wetland map unit in the project area.  They are usually found in headwaters positions, though exceptions are common. (e.g.  where streams encounter terrace risers, and the Kenai River between Sterling and Soldotna).  Narrow fringe wetlands usually support a Barclay's willow (Salix barclayi) or a diverse bluejoint grass (Calamagrostis canadensis) plant community, although many narrow streams flow through forests.  Stream marginal cobles or gravels are evident during periods of lower water.  Bed materials are typically gravels and cobbles. 

The floodplains of RB streams are narrow, therefore wetland criteria are often met only very close to the streambed, although many may be mapped  wider.   The limiting wetland criterion met is typically depth to redoximorphic features.  Occasionally, the hyporheic zone, the zone where stream water influences groundwater near stream courses, may be shallow and extensive, along with the wetland portion of the stream.  On the 'B' portion of the Kenai River it can extend 100 meters or more from the edge of the river.

 

Fifty foot habitat protection area

Fourteen streams in the project area are covered under Kenai Peninsula Borough's Anadromous Streams Habitat Protection Ordinance.  Many activities require a permit, or are prohibited within 50 feet of these streams.  For a list of the streams, rationale for the ordinance, and details on obtaining a permit, visit the link highlighted above.

 

Floodplain regulation

From The Kenai Borough website:

"The Kenai Peninsula Borough manages a Floodplain Ordinance that addresses proper development to reduce flood risks and lessen the economic losses caused by flood events. The ordinance provides building standards for construction projects within the floodplain to ensure the availability of flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. These building requirements also are intended to minimize or prevent damage when flood events occur. The ordinance requires floodplain development permits for all projects in floodplains."

 

In Homer, the name RBd refers to a wetland that was RB but is now disturbed.