Abstract |
Protective corridors, or buffer zones, around streams, lakes, and other surface water features are an important planning tool in helping to protect stream water quality and aquatic habitat. Left in a vegetated state, buffers serve a number of important and well-documented services and functions, including filtering and removing pollutants from stream channels, controlling streambank erosion, providing wildlife habitat, providing water storage and floodplain protection measures, shading streams from excessive heat, and delivering recreational opportunities. And they provide these services in both urban and rural settings. The NH Estuaries Project has launched an aggressive campaign to educate coastal watershed towns about the importance of buffers and the need to enhance local buffer protective measures. The outreach effort includes a presentation that assists communities in assessing buffer characteristics and buffer protections in their town. |