Riparian areas offer many ecosystem services and this is the main reason for their conservation, protection and restoration. These ecosystems have been used extensively by human throughout history and is the main reason why many scientists consider them as the most degraded. Agriculture, urbanization and changes in the streams and rivers (e.g. dams) are the main culprits for their degradation. Methods that quickly assess the current conditions of riparian areas are needed, as a first assessment. Based on this assessment the next steps will be determined. Such methods are the visual protocols. The purpose of this study was to assess the condition of the stream and the riparian areas of Kato Nevrokopi, Drama, Greece. The Stream Visual Assessment Protocol (SVAP), was selected to be used in the study. The SVAP focuses on the mainly on the condition that stream reach by assessing different factors. The results of the protocol indicate that the stream and its riparian areas that were assessed have extensive anthropogenic interventions and rates overall as poor quality. The riparian areas near and in Kato Nevrokopi have been fragmented due to the presence of human infrastructure while the stream channel has been modified. Implementing ecosystem-based approaches and nature-based solution are imperative if the goal is to improve and conserve the stream and its riparian areas. Another important action is enhancing the awareness of the local officials and general public on best practices for managing stream and riparian areas.