Streamside Trees
The Safe Water Conservation Collaborative is working with landowners in Jefferson County and Berkeley County, West Virginia to plant riparian buffers that will improve the water quality within the watershed and beyond.
Safe Water Conservation Collaborative's Tree Planting Program
In 2021, the Safe Water Conservation Collaborative (SWCC) was awarded a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to support the planting of riparian buffers (streamside trees) in Jefferson County and Berkeley County, West Virginia until December 2024. We specified four sub-watersheds of Opequon Creek, Bullskin Run, Back Creek, and Elks Run within these counties to put a particular focus on these areas, but we are happy to install these riparian buffers anywhere within Berkeley or Jefferson Counties that would benefit.
We work with landowners in these two counties who have water on their property that may be in need of a riparian buffer and who want to help improve the water quality in their area. We collaborate with landowners to design a planting plan, including specific tree species, and offer support to ensure maintenance for a period following installation, all at no cost to the landowner!
What are riparian buffers and how do they help clean the water?
Riparian buffers are strips of vegetation found along the banks of streams, rivers, and other bodies of water and help protect water quality by filtering pollutants and sediment from runoff before it enters the water. They also help stabilize stream banks, reduce erosion and flooding, and provide habitat for a variety of plants and animals.
Essentially, they serve as an amazing natural filtration system between the land and the water helping to purify water and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Are you eligible for our program?
My property is located within either Jefferson or Berkeley County, WV.
I have water on my property that may be in need of a riparian buffer.
I want to do my part to improve the water quality in my watershed.
If you answered "yes" to these questions, please click the button below to reach out and get more information!