How riparian forests protect the land from flooding and how you can protect buffers when floodwaters come
As heavy precipitation events increase in frequency and intensity, landscapes across Virginia are becoming increasingly prone to flooding. These floods can have a catastrophic impact on landscapes and property – but there are ways to lessen those impacts. Riparian forest buffers are one great example.
Riparian forest buffers are areas along a waterway that are made up of native trees and shrubs. The presence of these buffers slow down moving water, reducing erosion and trapping sediment and runoff in the floodplain. The root systems of a buffer’s trees and shrubs break up soil and help water percolate into the ground. Buffers also help spread floodwaters into the landscape, reducing the risk of it concentrating in one area. Lastly, they’re effective at recharging groundwater, or restoring aquifers deep under the soil.
Since 2019 the James River Buffer Program has installed 1,233 acres of riparian buffers and many of these projects are located in flood sensitive areas. If you are a landowner with a buffer that has recently been impacted by flooding, here are some maintenance activities to keep in mind.
- When planting adjacent to a waterway, stakes are placed on the upstream side of the tube, which helps prevent high water pushing the tubes over. However, tubes can still fall over, so checking that tubes are upright is crucial to ensure the highest survival rate. After the water has safely retreated, return any tubes and stakes that were knocked over to an upright position.
- Check to make sure the tubes are not full of sediment. High water can deposit silt and sediment inside the tubes, and this can smother the seedling inside!
- Be sure to clean up any debris that was washed away in high water. If you find any tubes and stakes, they can be reused on surviving tree and shrub seedlings.
If there are ever questions regarding maintenance of riparian forest buffer sites following impactful weather, be sure to reach out to the organization that implemented the project.
What Can you do to help?
Want to be part of the solution to reduce flooding and improve our local waterways? There are many ways you can make a tangible difference in your community, whether you own property or rent. Every action, big or small, helps create a more resilient and healthy environment for all.
If You Live Near a Stream:
- Consider a Buffer Installation: If your property borders a stream, even in an urban setting, you might be eligible for our James River Buffer Program! Streamside buffers of native plants help to absorb stormwater runoff, filter pollutants, and reduce erosion. Visit JamesRiverBuffers.org to learn more and see if you qualify for assistance with installation.
If you don’t have water on your property that requires a forested buffer, you can still utilize conservation landscaping for flood mitigation!
Get Your Hands Dirty for a Greener Future:
- Become a Riparian Steward: Join our Riparian Stewards program and help plant trees and native vegetation along stream banks. These plantings act as natural sponges, soaking up rainwater and reducing the impact of flooding over time. Your efforts will contribute to healthier waterways and more resilient landscapes. Learn more and sign up at thejamesriver.org/riparian-stewards/.
Learn and Landscape for Conservation:
Volunteer for Green Infrastructure in Richmond:
- Become a Green Infrastructure Steward: If you don’t own property where you can install rain gardens or rain barrels, you can still make a difference! Volunteer as a Green Infrastructure Steward in Richmond and help maintain and support green infrastructure projects like those being implemented at Richmond Public Libraries. Your time and effort will directly contribute to managing stormwater in our urban areas. Find out how to get involved at thejamesriver.org/what-you-can-do/help-the-james-in-your-community/green-infrastructure-stewards/ and learn about library projects at thejamesriver.org/greening-richmond-public-libraries/.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us build a more resilient and sustainable future for our communities and the James River watershed.
