City of Apple Valley

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Departments > Natural Resources > Water Resources > Buffer Zone Plantings

Wetland Buffer Zones

Wetland buffer zones act as filtration systems preventing nutrients from fertilizers and grass clippings from entering the water body. The overall water quality of the water body you live on, and other downstream water bodies, are enhanced by preventing nutrients from negatively impacting them. In order to promote and further enhance water quality, the City requires a 15 foot wide naturally vegetated buffer strip. While larger buffer zones are encouraged, the City must balance the demands of a growing community and overall water quality. Wetland buffer zones provide the following benefits:

Preventing Erosion. Wetland buffer zones prevent erosion. Emergent vegetation slows wave action, thus preventing the shoreline from eroding. The root systems of the upland vegetation hold soil particles and prevent erosion of the slopes of the water body.

Diverse Wildlife Habitat. Wetland buffer zones also promote diverse wildlife habitat. The buffers encourage diversity in wildlife habitat, which attracts turtles, frogs, butterflies, and a diversity of bird species.

Geese. In our suburban environment, geese enjoy feeding and resting on our manicured lawns. Wetland buffer zones create an environment that can reduce the nuisance created by geese populations. In order to feel secure and avoid predation, geese prefer a direct sight line of escape from their upland feeding and resting areas. Wetland buffers prevent this direct sight line, and in affect, can deter geese from gathering in these areas.

Content updated on: 29-Dec-2006

City of Apple Valley
7100 West 147th Street | Apple Valley, MN 55124
(952) 953-2500 | info@ci.apple-valley.mn.us
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