How do buffers work?
The vegetation in the buffer intercepts rainfall and meltwater from snow, slows it down and allows it to gently trickle into the soil. The vegetation and plant material which collects on the ground traps sediment before it can reach the water supply. Chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides and pathogens are partially absorbed or made less toxic by plant roots, decaying plants, and beneficial microbes. These actions pretreat the water entering the wetland, so it stays healthier and provides cleaner drinking water for everyone. Why is a buffer of natural vegetation recommended? Natural vegetation is not “groomed” or disturbed. This allows leaf litter and deadfall to remain in place to rot naturally as well as for roots to grow without disturbance. These buffers are more effective at slowing the flow of water, trapping sediment and removing pollutants. In addition, natural vegetation contains a wide variety of plants which perform different water cleaning functions. All Buffers Are Not Equal –
