Plant a Buffer Zone

When harmful chemicals from farms, lawns, parks, and other developed areas reaches freshwater ecosystems, this runoff can cause many problems for wildlife. One way that people are starting to prevent this runoff is by planting buffer zones, or wide strips of native trees and plants, along river banks and lake shores. These buffer zones help trap and filter this harmful runoff before it reaches the water. As a bonus, planting buffer zones can also prevent bank erosion since plant and tree roots help to hold soil in place. If your backyard, school or community park sits next to any body of water, you can plant a buffer zone to help improve your species’ ecosystem.