JAMES RIVER BUFFER PROGRAM
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about the program

Testimonials 

Are you a farm owner in the James River watershed? Have you ever considered installing riparian forest buffers on your property? Check out the stories below to see how Robert and Jim discover the benefits of the James River Buffer Program.

how Does the program work?

For landowners who qualify and commit to participating in the program, we cover project costs and maintenance for three years. There are five steps to the program: 

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Step 1

Locate your property on the project map to determine eligibility.
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Step 2

Express interest online, by phone or by mail. Staff will review submissions on a continuous basis.
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step 3

A staff member will contact you to set up a site visit to see the land, analyze the site and discuss your priorities. A buffer design will be created and you will have the opportunity to review before installation. One hundred percent of the project cost is provided, including:
• design and management plan
• preparation of site as needed
• materials
• ​installation
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Step 4

Planting occurs during February-April and November-December. Some locations may need site preparation before planting can occur. Please note that due to the number of applications and the potential need for site preparation, all projects may not be completed this year.
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Step 5

We will evaluate the buffer for the first three years and provide maintenance, as needed, to help establish a healthy streamside forest.​ 

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A partnership program from the James River Association, the Virginia Department of Forestry, and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, supported by the Virginia Environmental Endowment.
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© 2020
  • Home
  • About
    • Why buffers matter
    • How the program works
    • Program partners
    • The James River Watershed
    • Resources
  • Apply
  • Volunteer
  • News
  • Contact