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Environmental Commission
Environmental Commission Corner - Summer 09
Posted: August 14, 2009
Free Planting of Waterside Buffers Offered! Byram's Environmental COmmission and Trout Unlimited are partnering to offer free riparian (waterside) buggers to interested homeowners with waterfront property. Riparian buffers are very important for the overall health of rivers and lakes, because theY: provide shade to keep the river or lake cool (sunlight promotes lake weeds; establish root sytems to hold the banks in place; supply excellent habitat, especially for song birds; and help prevent runoff from fertilizers (which promote lake weeds), pesticides and excess soil from entering the water. Trout Unlimited, the Musconetcong Watershed Associate, the heritage Conservancy, and various partners seek out landowners who are interested in planting native trees and shrubs to provide good riparian buffers. We work closely with private, state and federal agencies to obtain funding, plant materials and both, AND we supply the volunteers to do the actual plantings! If you want to plant a buffer or just want more information, contact Brian Cowden from Trout Unlimited: (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 201-230-3383. Byram's ordinances recommend 10-foot wide buffers along 80% of waterfront, but homeowners can work with Trout Unlimited to design their own buffers.Environmental Commission Corner - Spring 09