The construction of plant community is very important to an ecological river.The main ecological functions of river are analyzed as an important geographical element and an ecological corridor for a regional ecosystem.By assuming vegetation measures to be a positive artificial disturbance,biodiversity can be effectively improved by edge effects and corridor effects.It is proposed that in river construction,ecological functions should be taken into account.Biodiversity conservation demands on environment should be met and a steady and healthy river ecosystem should be resumed and maintained.In addition,the concepts,contents,and functions of an ecological river are discussed.The near-natural river management is considered to be an effective way to ecological river construction and vegetation measures are the main content of near-natural river management.