Corridors and Vegetated Buffer Zones: A Preliminary Assessment and Study Design

Abstract

Abstract : The majority of inland Corps of Engineers civil works projects are constructed along streams and rivers. There is increasing interest in the value of riparian zones adjacent to these aquatic resources as corridors and vegetated buffer strips, especially as potential wildlife habitat. Flood storage, improved water quality through reduction of sediment and nutrients, pollution and noise-abatement, wildlife habitat and travel corridors, aquifer recharge, recreation, and aesthetics are all well-known values of riparian zones and together provide considerable rationale for their conservation. This report concentrates on a 3-year research project on corridors and vegetated buffer zones that was initiated in FY 97 with goals to develop technical guidelines from current literature and field studies to improve design, evaluation, restoration, and management of riparian corridors. These guidelines will be used to assist CE personnel in making decisions for riparian buffer zone and corridor designs based on the most accepted scientific criteria. Current and future planned activities to meet these goals are discussed in this report.