Volunteers Play Significant Role In Planting More Than 120 Miles Of Streamside Forest Buffers Since Spring

In 1996, Governor Parris N. Glendening pledged to create 600 miles of new riparian forest buffers by the year 2010. Answering his call, Marylanders have restored in excess of 329 miles of forest along our waterways in the past four years as part of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) Stream ReLeaf program. This spring alone, DNR and volunteers planted more than 120 miles as part of this effort.

Many Marylanders are now planning fall planting projects on their property and neighborhoods. The Forest Service has recently completed a new brochure describing Stream ReLeaf. The brochure helps citizens plan reforestation projects, outlines volunteer programs and offers useful information.

"Currently, we are planting 10 times more buffers each year than were planted prior to 1996. As these streamside forests grow, they will filter nutrients and sediment, shade streams, add food sources for aquatic life, and help stabilize stream banks," said Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary Sarah Taylor-Rogers, Ph.D. "Many thanks go to the foresters and volunteers who worked hard to establish these areas that are so important to our environment and communities."

Tree survival being monitored

Throughout the state, DNR is monitoring streamside forest buffers created through this effort for tree survival. Results from last year's pilot study in two watersheds suggest that 80 percent of the sites meet minimum survival standards, despite the drought of the summers of 1998 and 1999. To reinforce sites that have lower survival, DNR is replanting to supplement the surviving trees, increasing tree density well above 200 trees per acre.

An interesting finding of the study was that 40 percent of young trees found in the buffer had naturally regenerated among the planted seedlings. That finding demonstrates that when we allow, nature can help return these sites to their natural state.

Incentive programs available

A variety of incentive programs are available to help landowners with planting stream buffers. The largest program is the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) for agricultural landowners. The combination of attractive rental rates for 10-15 years, sign-up bonuses and up to 100 percent reimbursement of planting costs has made the program a popular way to finance buffers. Landowners can enroll at their local USDA Farm Services Agency office.

DNR foresters can help landowners or communities plan planting projects. To request a brochure or to find out how to contact your county's DNR forester, call 410-260-8531 or toll-free in Maryland at 877-620-8DNR, extension 8531.

Posted: 11-1-2000