Conservation Buffers
Conservation buffers are areas or strips of permanent vegetation planted and maintained along streams, ditches, field borders or within fields. Buffers trap blowing soil particles and reduce runoff of soil, chemicals and other pollutants.
Common types include the following:
- riparian buffers,
- filter strips,
- grassed waterways,
- shelter belts,
- field windbreaks, and
- living snow fences.
In addition to their soil and water conservation benefits, conservation buffers can help farmers and rural landowners by providing habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects.
Resources
For more information on conservation buffers, check out the following resources:
- Buffer Strips: Common Sense Conservation, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Soft Engineering & Conservation Buffers Initiative, Southeast Michigan Resource Conservation & Development Council