Riparian Buffer Maintenance Challenges – Better Buffers for Cleaner Water

Source: University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment

Riparian buffer vegetation is typically composed of trees, shrubs, grasses, and herbaceous perennials often planted in three zones. Buffers can be established by actively planting vegetation or by allowing vegetation to come back on its own. Both establishment methods require long-term management. An unmanaged riparian buffer can quickly be taken over by undesirable plants such as invasive species. In urban settings it may not be possible to create this delineation due to space and visibility constraints but it is a good idea to include trees, shrubs, grasses, and herbaceous plants – this variety of plant types helps create a healthy stream buffer habitat.

Length: 04:56

Year Produced: 2022

State: Kentucky

Cropping Systems: Beef Cattle, Corn

Tags: buffers, forest management, riparian buffers, wildlife