Streambank Buffers 
A stream is best protected when surrounded by a substantial
buffer area of woods, shrubs, wetlands, and grasses. Landowners with
streamside property can
protect the waterway with a reforested buffer zone. These buffer areas
are most effective when they are at least 50 feet wide and are left ungroomed.
Vegetation that is left in a natural state can optimally perform the
following functions:
• Prevention of stream bank erosion;
• Water storage and filtration to ground water;
• Removal of sediment and excess nutrients;
• Filtration of water impurities;
• Cooling and shading of stream water; as well as
• Provision of organic debris for stream wildlife.
Occasionally, branches or trees may fall into the stream from the bank.
These natural dams catch organic debris which provide a rich feeding
area for aquatic creatures. Snags and blockages that cause problem flooding
or erosion may, however, have to be cleared away.
