What role do riparian buffers play in surface water protection?

Riparian buffers are important ecosystems situated along the edges of streams, rivers, and lakes that play a crucial role in protecting surface water. Their primary function is to filter pollutants from stormwater runoff before it enters the water bodies. This filtering process involves the vegetation in these buffers, which absorbs nutrients, sediments, and contaminants that may otherwise degrade water quality.

In addition to their role in pollution reduction, riparian buffers provide essential wildlife habitat, supporting diverse flora and fauna. This habitat is critical for many species, as it offers food, nesting, and protection from predators. Consequently, the combination of filtering pollutants and providing wildlife habitat highlights the multifaceted importance of riparian buffers in maintaining both water quality and biodiversity.