A riparian buffer is an area of vegetation adjacent to a stream, wetland, reservoir, or pond.  A healthy buffer consists of natural vegetation and excludes livestock.  This vegetated strip of land ‘buffers’ the water from human impacts such as development and agriculture, providing numerous benefits and services to people and the environment. 

Learn more about the importance of riparian buffers for:

• Drinking Water
•  Flood Protection
•  Economy
•  Public Health 
• Wildlife Habitat
• Recreation
• Climate Resilience

Visit Riparian Buffer Requirements to learn more about where buffers are required in the county.