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What is a Conservation
Buffer? |
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In short, buffers are a common sense way to protect the environment and
demonstrate a commitment to conservation. They're best described as a small area
or strip of land in permanent vegetation that's designed to slow water runoff,
improve water and air quality, provide shelter, and stabilize areas next to
streams, lakes, and rivers.
Below are four examples of
conservation buffers. To learn how to add these practices to your farm
operation, visit the
Conservation Reserve Program page on NRCS's website.
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Grass Waterway
These strips of grass are planted on areas of fields
where water is concentrated as it runs through or off the fields. They
are used primarily to prevent and control gully erosion. They are also
used to act as a filter, trapping sediment and other pollutants.
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Filter Strip
A strip of vegetation used to slow water runoff from a field. These
strips trap sediment, fertilizer nutrients, synthetic pesticides and
herbicides, pathogens and other pollutants before they reach a river,
lake or stream.
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Riparian Buffer
This buffer acts in a similar manner to the grass Filter Strip. However,
it utilizes streamside plantings of trees and shrubs that provide
habitat for wildlife, reduce water temperature, and sequester carbon
from our atmosphere.
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Field Windbreak
This practice involves 2 or more rows of evergreen trees to reduce soil
erosion from wind, protect field crops and livestock, and conserve soil
moisture.
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Agriculture Home
Conservation Programs
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