NATURAL BUFFER ZONES

 
   

What Is It?

Natural Buffer Zones are protected zones within a stream corridor usually containing a mix of native vegetation which help reduce the effects of surrounding land uses that might otherwise harm water quality. The State of North Carolina has adopted water supply watershed regulations that require buffers along certain waterways. Local governments have the authority to adopt regulations more stringent than the State. Some localities have adopted natural buffer regulations in which the removal of trees, for example, is prohibited.

Shared Impact and Benefits

  • Stream Buffers filter out and process pollutants, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, particularly from non-point source origins, before they can contaminate reservoirs and present health risks.

    •
  • Stream Buffers trap and remove sediment runoff, provide flood control, protect stream banks from erosion.

    •
  • Stream Buffers will improve the water quality and therefore reduce the costs of water clean-up.

    •
  • Many areas depend on rainwater soaking into the ground to replenish underground drinking water supplies. The vegetation in buffer zones absorbs water runoff and allows it to percolate down into the ground water supplies.

    •
  • Stream Buffer zones provide vital networks for wildlife as well as opportunities for recreational greenways.

    •
  • Studies show that property values increase when located next to a natural buffer zone.

    •
  • As more communities implement stream buffer plans, the more overall water quality for the entire region will benefit.

    •

Costs

Buffer lands can be acquired through conservation easements, required in setbacks, received by donation or purchased. Local government will require a trained staff to provide technical assistance, program start-up, planning and legal requirements, site selection, and community education.

   
 

This Action Item can be implemented as a

POLICY
ORDINANCE
PROGRAM

 

How long does this take to implement?

Many of the plants that form buffers require a relatively short time to mature, but can effectively function before then. Trees require the most time. Maintenance of the buffer is an ongoing process.

   

  • City/Town Council
  • State and local environmental engineering experts
  • Chamber of Commerce and business leaders
  • Parks and Recreation Commission
  • Utility advisory board (stormwater, sewer)
  • Local marine association representatives
  • Community groups
  • Environmental groups
  • Planning Board
  • Real Estate and Home Builders Associations