Riparian Buffers

riparian buffer01
Photo courtesy of USDA NRCS

Multiple rows of trees and shrubs, as well as a native grass strip, combine with terraces and other upland conservation treatment to protect Bear Creek in Story county, Iowa. The riparian buffer along the steam is part of a nationally designated demonstration area for riparian buffers.

Riparian buffers are one of the best ways to enhance river and stream corridor habitats for a wide variety of wildlife species as well as providing improved water quality.

The tree and shrub component of a riparian buffer produces cover for numerous bird species, such as warblers and finches, wood ducks and herons. Mammals such as minks, raccoons, squirrels, and deer find homes here. The shade cover provided by older trees and deadfall trees also greatly enhances the in stream habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms.

Adding 30 to 60 feet of grasses and forbs to the outside of the buffer is an excellent way to sop field runoff from entering the river system. These grass strips also act as buffers between the river and trees and the cropped field when spraying chemicals, preventing them from entering the water or harming the trees. Grass strips are also great way to square up your fields making planting and harvesting much simpler.

Riparian buffers can also have positive effects on a producers bottom line. Many areas near rivers and streams frequently flood, have poor soils, or are difficult to till. Retiring this land can cut the cost of inputs into these poor quality areas. Couple that with the potential for annual CRP rental rates and 90% cost share and you have some good incentives to consider when making the decision to "Farm the Best and Buffer the Rest."

riparian buffer02
Photo courtesy of USDA NRCS

This site, (photo at left) which is in the Maple River watershed, would be an excellent place for buffers. The North facing slope (on the left side of the photo) would be a great site for a riparian buffer with trees & shrubs, while the field on the right would be well suited for a filter strip of native grasses.