Protecting Your Water

Protecting Your Water's Edge with streamside buffers
A vegetative buffer along your waterfront property is an easy and common-sense way to protect your most valuable asset --- your backyard --- and it provides seasonal blooms and autumn color while attracting butterflies and birds and providing a measure of privacy.
	The buffer acts as a natural living filter for rainfall runoff, trapping sediment, debris and pollutants before they enter the waterway and allowing water to soak into the ground to recharge wells and reduce flooding. The plant roots hold soil in place, controlling erosion, which can cloud the water and harm aquatic habitats. Because they shade the water's edge, trees and shrubs keep water temperatures cooler for healthy amphibian, fish and other aquatic life. Buffer gardens also provide food and habitat for wildlife. For more information on streamside buffers, click here.

P.O. Box 28
Cornwall Bridge, CT 06754
860-672-6678

P.O. Box 251
South Lee, MA 01260
413-394-9796

P.O. Box 315
Wassaic, NY 12592
845-789-1381