Riparian buffers are largely considered to be an effective tool for water quality protection.  Vegetated areas along rivers and streams:

• Filter land runoff that may contain sediment and/or other contaminants;

• Provide shade that helps stabilize water temperature;

• Provide food resources for stream inhabitants;

• Act as travel corridors for wildlife.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides this great resource guide Where Land and Water Meet A Guide for Protection and Restoration of Riparian Areas.

The most effective stream buffer width will depend on various local conditions, such as slope and soil type. Much of this information can be obtained at an interactive on-line Web Soil Survey operated by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.  The NRCS set up a riparian buffer demonstration along the shore of Mansfield Hollow Lake at the TRBP Floating Workshop 8 using these signs.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) periodically offers special cost sharing programs for landowners that wish to improve wildlife habitat or replant riparian buffers.  Click here for information on the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program.

Here are other useful links for riparian buffer information:

Benefits of Riparian Buffers

Riparian Buffer Do’s and Don’ts