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16. Stream protection
Protecting a stream by excluding livestock, stabilizing the stream channel and establishing vegetative buffer zones.
| How it works |
Vegetative plantings or structural measures such as rip rap, vortex weirs, or drop structures may be utilized to stabilize stream banks and redirect or reduce stream flow energy. This reduces erosion and creates habitat. Fencing prevents livestock from trampling banks, destroying vegetation and stirring up sediment in the streambed. A vegetative buffer along the stream bank intercepts and filters runoff may absorb excess nutrients and provides shade and habitat.
| How it helps |
Streams are stabilized, thereby reducing erosion, improving fisheries habitat, decreasing stream migration and improving flood attenuation.
Water quality and fisheries habitat improvements result from reduced amounts of nutrients, pesticides and sediment entering the stream.
Riparian buffer zones provide wildlife habitat. Trees reduce stream temperatures and increase food and cover to support fisheries resources.
| Planning ahead |
Have you planned to install an off-stream water system for livestock or limited livestock access to the stream?
Are proper soil conservation measures installed in the stream watershed to prevent siltation of buffer zones and streambed?
Will a stream crossing be needed for livestock?
What are the conditions upstream?
| Tech notes |
Riparian vegetative filter strips or buffers should be 1/3 of the flood plain or a minimum of 35 feet for water quality benefits. Comprehensive habitat and stream protection benefits may require a wider buffer strip.
Noxious weed control is required periodically.
Periodic grazing may occur to control woody vegetation in grass filter strips if they are firm and dry.
All work must comply with federal, state and local requirements. Contact your soil conservation district for assistance.
| Maintenance |
-Keep fences repaired.
-Avoid damaging buffer zones herbicides from surrounding cropland.