Riparian Area Short Media Article/Radio Script
This is <name> with <affiliation>. A riparian zone is the area of trees or shrubs next to a
stream, river, or other water body. The riparian zone, which is also known as a buffer
zone or streamside vegetation, works as a buffer between the water and the land above
it. This buffer helps to filter out any possible pollutants, such as fertilizers, pesticides,
litter, or sediment. It also shades the water body, which will prevent excessive algae
growth that might result from too much sunlight on the water. A healthy riparian zone
has a diversity of native trees and shrubs. These tree and shrub roots help stabilize
stream banks and reduce erosion.
Riparian areas can be incorporated into your KY Agriculture Water Quality Plan as a best
management practice. Develop a riparian area by not mowing all the way to the edge of
the stream. If there are no trees or shrubs near your stream, plant some.
To learn more about riparian areas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service or
Conservation District office.
Prepared by Amanda Gumbert, Extension Water Quality Liaison. 2010.