Farming practices that help you increase profitability and productivity are critical to the success of your operation. A streamside, or tree buffer, is a natural, cost-effective and long-lasting practice that can help you do more.
What a streamside buffer can do
A streamside buffer is in an intentional planting of trees and shrubs across at least 30 feet between waterways and farm fields. These plantings are a link between land and water and a “living filter” for surface and subsurface water leaving upslope areas. They can:
Increase productivity
Healthy adjacent farmland can lead to higher yields and less optimizing inputs.
Improve local habitats
Vegetation provides shade, food and shelter for insects, fish and amphibians, as well as beneficial wildlife and pollinators.
Protect the land
Reduced flooding can help protect nearby crops and increase property values.
Plant a streamside buffer
To get started, follow these 3 steps:
- Work with an expert - A local specialist can help you with a plan to fit your operation, discuss funding opportunities and explore additional support.
- Choose your plants - Native trees and plants work best because they’re easier to care for in the local climate and provide a source of food and shelter for local wildlife.
- Measure it out - When planting, plan for at least 35 feet of space between the high-water line and your farm field edge.
Consider Assistance Programs
Programs exist to help you learn more, alleviate costs and maintain your buffer. The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) program is one example. Part of the USDA, CREP is a land retirement program designed to protect water and soil by removing marginal agricultural land from production.
- CREP provides up to 50% installation costs
- State funding often meets that to cover 90% of costs
- Land owners further benefit from incentives and land rental payments
A streamside buffer can help you do more for your operation for years to come.
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Read More Related Articles Here:
-Healthy Waterways Serve Everyone
-3 Steps to Planting a Tree Buffer
-Protect Your Land with a Streamside Buffer
