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Riparian Buffers...Streamside Areas
The growing population of Western Montana's valleys has resulted in increased development pressure on lands adjacent to streams and rivers (riparian areas). This growth can be detrimental to plants, trees and shrubs along side the stream as well as to aquatic life in the stream if buffers are not present.
Tips to improve and protect the rivers and streams of the Gallatin watershed:
Leave native plants along rivers and streams. Native streamside vegetation helps filter out pollutants, stabilize streambanks, and supports wildlife. When this native vegetation along waterways is removed, the waterway is more susceptible to increased amounts of sediment and other polluntants. Why is this important? Excess sediment in a stream or river clogs critical spawning habitat for fish, reduces habitat for aquatic insects which are an important food source for fish, and can contribute to increased water temperatures which can negatively impact survival of fish. |
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Don't plant lawns down to the riverbank. Lawns don't root deeply, so they don't adequately filter runoff or stabilize banks. Plus, they make for poor wildlife habitat. |
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Avoid using fertilizers and pesticides—especially near water. These pollutants can negatively impact aquatic life, contribute to green algae blooms and even kill fish, aquatic insects and wildlife. If you must use them to control heavy infestations of noxious weeds, contact the County Weed District or
County Extension Office for information on which options are best and how to apply them. |
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Build smart. When building on a site, preserve as much of the riparian area as possible, site your building and pavement as far from the stream as possible (at least 75 feet and out of floodplain and streamside vegetation) and be sure your septic system is properly installed and maintained. There are regulations requiring specific setbacks for septic tanks and drainfields. Contact the Environmental Health Division of the County Health Department for information and permits. |
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Keep livestock out of the water. Livestock should be fenced away from the river with an alternative source of water made available. And all pet/livestock waste should be picked up and removed from the riparian zone. |
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Act on behalf of water quality. Participate in activities and events hosted by one of the Gallatin's local watershed groups (Greater Gallatin Watershed Council, Blue Water Task Force, attend public hearings on setbacks and water quality issues, and tell your elected officials
that you support protection of rivers and streams. |
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Learn More:
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