Do you want to grow forests for clean water?!
The James River Association (JRA) and the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) are here to help landowners across the Middle James watershed to restore forest buffers along local waterways. A forest buffer is an area of trees and shrubs between a stream and open land that filters soil, nutrients, and pollution before they reach the stream. The new James River Buffer Program will cover 100% of the total project costs including design, site preparation as needed, materials, and installation. Staff will also provide 3 years of help and assistance to evaluate needs and perform buffer maintenance as needed to establish a healthy streamside forest.
Eligible areas include the following Virginia Counties:
What’s needed from the landowner?
It’s simple:
• A desire to improve water quality and habitat on their land and for downstream landowners.
• An area along a waterway where a forested buffer of 35’ or more can be established.
• 15 year agreement that you will keep the buffer as forest
In addition to VDOF, JRA will be working closely with key partners including Thomas Jefferson, Monacan, and Peter Francisco Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and the Virginia Outdoors Foundation to guide outreach and ensure the buffer project meets landowner objectives.
Let’s work together to promote healthy watersheds and Become a James Changer! Visit www.jamesriverbuffers.org for more information.
This project is supported by the Virginia Environmental Endowment.