about the program

Why do riparian forest buffers Matter?

The James River basin has a goal to restore 60,000 acres of riparian forest buffer to mitigate the effects of non-point source pollutants. According to the 2017 State of the James report, only 32% of that goal has been met. A 35-foot wide forest buffer has the potential to remove most of the nutrients and sediment that adversely affect the quality of waterways.
The slideshow above shows site preparation and initial planting.

​Benefits of buffers

  • ​Filter and absorb pollutants like sediment and nutrients from runoff
  • Stabilize stream banks and reduce stream bank erosion
  • Reduce impacts of flooding through the interception and infiltration of water
  • Shade and cool streams
  • Provide habitat
  • Supply food for wildlife, fish, and macro invertebrates