Conservation Buffer Initiative

In April 1997, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched the National Conservation Buffer Initiative under the leadership of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). With this initiative, the Department has pledged to help landowners install 2 million miles of conservation buffers by the year 2002.

Conservation buffers are a common-sense way for you to protect your most valuable asset - your land- and demonstrate your personal commitment to conservation. Buffers simply are small areas or strips of land in permanent vegetation, designed to intercept pollutants and manage other environmental concern. These areas protect soil, improve air and water quality, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, conserve biodiversity, and beautify the landscape. Types of buffers used in Georgia include riparian forest buffers, filter strips, grassed waterways, contour grass strips, field borders, alley cropping, and shallow water areas for wildlife.

For specific information on this program in your county please contact your local office.