Acceptance by Knowing? The Social Context of Urban Riparian Buffers as a Stormwater Best Management Practice

Abstract

U.S. federal and state policy regulating the quality of surface water is expanding to require local governments to regulate levels of non-point source pollution in stormwater runoff entering local streams. The purpose of this study was to explore the social context surrounding use of riparian buffers, an urban stormwater best management practice (BMP), to help communities reduce pollutant loading and meet local permitting requirements. A survey was utilized to characterize watershed residents' understanding of stream-riparian functions and values, and in order to understand how they construct the spatial limits of a riparian area. Results suggest a broad and complex valuation structure with both differences and similarities identified between stakeholder groups and technical assumptions. While visual attractiveness was an important function, water quality enhancement and wildlife habitat were more frequently identified. Results suggest riparian buffers may be socially acceptable if their appearance is understood as necessary in supporting functions valued by the community.