Floodplains provide several important and beneficial natural functions to the City of Lambertville and the surrounding area.  Floodplains that are relatively undisturbed provide a wide range of benefits to both human and natural systems.  In addition to the natural aesthetic afforded by natural open space, floodplains provide water storage, filtration of nutrients, water quality improvements and critical habitat for waterfowl, fish, and other animals.  Undisturbed floodplains also naturally provide erosion control and cumulatively reduce damage from future flooding hazards.