HomeMy WebLinkAboutElement 1 BMP-C102
BMP C102: Buffer Zones
Purpose Creation of an undisturbed area or strip of natural vegetation or an
established suitable planting that will provide a living filter to reduce soil
erosion and runoff velocities.
Conditions of Use Natural buffer zones are used along streams, wetlands and other bodies of
water that need protection from erosion and sedimentation. Vegetative
buffer zones can be used to protect natural swales and can be incorporated
into the natural landscaping of an area.
Critical-areas buffer zones should not be used as sediment treatment areas.
These areas shall remain completely undisturbed. The local permitting
authority may expand the buffer widths temporarily to allow the use of the
expanded area for removal of sediment.
Design and
Installation
Specifications
Preserving natural vegetation or plantings in clumps, blocks, or strips
is generally the easiest and most successful method.
Leave all unstable steep slopes in natural vegetation.
Mark clearing limits and keep all equipment and construction debris
out of the natural areas and buffer zones. Steel construction fencing is
the most effective method in protecting sensitive areas and buffers.
Alternatively, wire-backed silt fence on steel posts is marginally
effective. Flagging alone is typically not effective.
Keep all excavations outside the dripline of trees and shrubs.
Do not push debris or extra soil into the buffer zone area because it
will cause damage from burying and smothering.
Vegetative buffer zones for streams, lakes or other waterways shall be
established by the local permitting authority or other state or federal
permits or approvals.
Maintenance
Standards
Inspect the area frequently to make sure flagging remains in place and the
area remains undisturbed. Replace all damaged flagging immediately.