Bu

 

Buffers are small areas or strips of land in perennial vegetation, designed to intercept pollutants.  Buffers can include filter strips, grassed waterways, shelterbelts, windbreaks, living snow fences, and contour grass strips.   Properly placed buffers on the landscape can effectively minimize movement of soil, nutrients and chemicals from farm fields, they can also enhance wildlife habitat.

 

Benefits of Buffers

Conservation buffers slow water runoff, trap sediment, and enhance infiltration within the buffer.  Buffers also trap pesticides, pathogens, and fertilizers.  In addition they protect livestock, and wildlife from harsh weather, and are a source of cover, food and shelter for many wildlife species.  They also help stabilize a stream or ditch, and help reduce water temperatures.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are many programs that will help pay for the cost of installing buffer strips.  The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP), and Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) are just a few of the cost-sharing programs available. 

CRP rental rates vary by County and soil type.  The rate range throughout the Hawk Creek Watershed Project area ranges from $118 to $212 per acre.  There is also a Hawk Creek Watershed Project incentive payment of up to $150 per acre.  This is a one time up front payment for a 15 year contract.  Contract length can vary from 10 to 15 year, depending on your needs.

 

Stop in at your County’s USDA Service Center and have the Soil and Water Conservation Districts or Natural   Resource Conservation Service give you a quote on your specific location and soil type.

 

 

 

 

               Buffers-Conservation that works Economically and Environmentally

4

Turn your eroding or bare ditch bank

from this

 

In to this