| instream cover | Areas of shelter in a stream channel that provide aquatic organisms protection from predators or competitors and/or a place in which to rest and conserve energy due to a reduction in the force of the current. (09 Oct 1997) |
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| overhead cover | Material (organic or inorganic) that provides protection to fish or other aquatic animals from above, generally includes material overhanging the stream less than a particular distance above the water surface. Values less than 0.5 m (1.5 feet) and less than 1 m (3 feet) have been used. (09 Oct 1997) |
| thermal cover | Vegetative condition, generally with greater than 70% canopy closure and 40 feet in height, that can significantly ameliorate weather effects such as wind, heat, cold, and snow. Used by wildlife in winter. (05 Dec 1998) |