Streamside forests are vital to protecting the health of our streams and the wildlife that depend on them. Let’s work together so we can continue to benefit from fishing, hunting, swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing, and recreating in our waterways!

1. Preparing the Site

Invasive plants like Reed Canary Grass and Himalayan Blackberry are controlled through various methods, including manual removal, mowing, and herbicide. This clears the way for native plant installation.

2. Planting the Site

After the weeds are cleared, native trees and shrubs are planted along streams, wetlands, or other waterways.

3. Site Maintenance

As invasive weeds grow back, the site will need continued maintenance to protect new plantings until they are tall enough to out-compete or shade-out other weeds. Maintenance includes weeding, mowing, or herbicide application and sometimes additional planting.

Streamside Forest Buffer Over the Years

Year 1

Weeds have been removed and new trees and shrubs have been planted. Plant protectors and beaver cages are often used to increase plant survival.

Year 5

Plants are growing larger, but still need occasional maintenance to increase their success.

Year 10

The trees and shrubs have grown enough to shade out the majority of unwanted invasive weeds.

Reference Site: A Healthy Stream

Here is an example of a healthy stream. The trees and shrubs help to keep the water cool and clean and provide overhanging protection for fish and wildlife. Ideally, there would also be some large wood in the channel help prevent rapid erosion by slowing down the water current.

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Sound Nature Fact Sheets