Restore Stream and Wetland Buffers

R1Restore Stream and Wetland Buffers

5 points possible

Why this matters to the lake?

Riparian zones surrounding streams and wetlands help to reduce sediments, nitrogen, phosphorous, and pesticides by filtering these and other pollutants out of stormwater and runoff. Healthy riparian buffers increase habitat, stabilize water channels and streambanks, improve water quality, provide stream shade and temperature control, and improve aesthetics. 

Intent

  • Restore ecological health of streams and wetlands by replanting and restoring buffers
  • Restore water quality by restoring buffers for sediment and pollutant removal
  • Restore critical environmental areas and sensitive sites for habitat protection

Requirements

Points are awarded based on buffer width for a site that demonstrates buffer restoration following the guidelines above. 

Category Buffer Width from
stream BANK
Points Points with
Covenant
Basic 25 ft 2 3
Preferred 50 ft 3 4
Optimal 75 ft 4 5

For all projects, proposed phasing plans must meet the following requirements:

  • Phase One: 50% of proposed restoration area at time of development. 
  • Phase Two: 25% of proposed restoration within two-year period. 
  • Phase Three: Remaining 25% within five years.  

Note: This credit is only applicable for restoration of buffers where none existed before a development project. For stream reaches with existing buffers, refer to credit P2.

Submittals

Include the following information with application:

  • As part of the Proposed Site Plan, show the delineation of streams (permanent and intermittent) and wetlands and provide a planting plan to restore the buffer, in phases if applicable.  Provide a detailed plant list to correspond with the plan.
  • Covenant if applicable.

Other Resources

Existing Regulatory Guidance/Requirements

New York (State). Department of Environmental Conservation. (1987). Freshwater Wetlands Act: Article 24 and Title 23 of Article 71 of the Environmental Conservation Law. 

Town of Queensbury Section179-8-040 Shoreline Buffers