VII.2.4. Riverside flora and fauna

Water tourism is extremely popular because its proximity to nature makes it an outstanding recreational activity. Our rivers are accompanied by the green ribbons of flood zone forests, many of which are protected areas. In natural surroundings, on the riverbanks, and on sandbanks there are various shrubs. Behind them one can find groves of soft-wood willows and poplars, These areas are under water for 2-4 months every year. (Cseh 2013). There is an increasing number of invasive species, including the American ash trees and elm trees. It is also possible to see lianes, climbing up the trees. The hardwood groves, which were to have been found in  higher areas, have unfortunately disappeared, due to construction works. There are some – very few - oak groves around.

For further details see.
http://www.stud.u-szeged.hu/Cseh.Viktoria.1/tanulmany.pdf

Sometimes there are smaller rivers and canals which, do not have forests near them. They offer only an aesthetic experience of lesser value to tourists. (e.g. Zagyva) .The lush vegetation in the riverbed, or the partially wooded areas (e.g. River Túr or the Szigetköz area) are of exceptional value for tourists.  Occasionally, the vegetation makes it imposssible to use the river for water tourism. (Zala River).  (Donka 2012).

Nowadays flood zones are also utilized by experts of hunting and sylciculture, considering the aspects of environmental protection.