Big Trees, Clean Water
Growing partnerships to create healthy streamside ecosystems for clean water in the James River today and tomorrow.
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Virginia’s cleanup plan calls for almost 70,000 acres of new riparian buffer within the James River watershed by 2025, and we have just under 8,000 acres reported to date. (State of the James, 2019).
Partners in the Upper and Middle James Riparian Consortium are working together and with landowners to bring this number up!
Buffer Acres
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Why Riparian Buffers matter
Ribbons of vegetation along our creeks and rivers provide a variety of benefits to water quality and the landowner. Healthy riparian buffers filter pollutants from upland runoff, stabilize stream banks, reduce impacts of flooding, shade and cool streams, and provide wildlife habitat. In addition, they provide a space for people to view wildlife, wander through the trees, and relax along the banks.
Focus areas of riparian restoration
Riparian Forest Buffers
Riparian buffers are the trees, shrubs, and other vegetation along our waterways …
Agricultural Infrastructure
Agricultural infrastructure in our riparian areas may include stream exclusion fencing to keep livestock out of waterways …
Streambank Stabilization
Streambank stabilization practices are implemented to address excessive erosion rates …
Wildlife Habitat
Healthy riparian areas provide food, shelter, and water for a unique wildlife community both on land and in the water …
Buffer Protection
If you’re investing in the health and restoration of riparian areas on your property, it is also important to protect that investment …