Restoring America's Only Native Bamboo, Rivercane

SOURCE www.npr.org
Efforts are being made to restore rivercane, America's only native bamboo, which was once plentiful along riverbanks but faded due to agriculture. Rivercane is important for Indigenous tribes and the environment, providing habitat for wildlife and stabilizing stream banks.

Key Points

  • Rivercane is the only native bamboo in the United States
  • It is used for intricate artistic basket weaving by Indigenous tribes
  • Efforts are being made to restore rivercane in various states including Oklahoma, Louisiana, and North Carolina

Pros

  • Rivercane provides habitat for migratory songbirds
  • It helps stabilize stream banks
  • Culturally significant for Indigenous tribes

Cons

  • Rivercane slowly faded from riverbanks due to agriculture