Floodplain benefits take many forms:

• Biological resources: Supports high rate of plant growth, provides breeding and feeding grounds, and enhances water fowl habitat
• Ground water recharge: Reduces frequency and duration of surface flow
• Natural flood and erosion control: Providing flood storage and conveyance, reduce flood velocity, and controls erosion of beachfront structures
• Societal resources: Provides open space and aesthetic pleasures, and in areas of scientific study, provides opportunities for environmental research
• Water quality: Filters nutrients and impurities from storm water runoff