How Does Streamside Vegetation Affect Water Quality?

In a nutshell, shrubs and trees promote water quality by reducing the amount of sediment and pollutants that wash into waterways. Vegetated areas along the edges of waterways also provide other benefits that last for generations. Buffers of greenery provide habitat for birds and wildlife, protect communities from floods, and promote cooler water temperatures. They can also be beautiful! The wider the buffer, the greater the benefit, but even small buffers can help reduce pollutants.

Visit a Streamside Demonstration Project


Over 100 volunteers transformed the shoreline of Geddes Brook at Shove Park in Camillus, NY. The planting includes a forested streamside buffer, erosion control plantings, a butterfly garden, streamside wetland gardens as well as street trees along the road. Take a tour of the Shove Park Demonstration Project.

How does a Willow Wattle? There are a number of soil bioengineering approaches to control erosion along steep slopes and shorelines. One method is the use of wattles or facines. Wattles are bundles of 2-3 year old branches. Willow and dogwood shrubs (not tree species) are most often used to form the bundles. Wattles may be used on slopes and in areas that require immediate and dense vegetation to stop erosion.

Learn More About Landscaping for Water Quality

Download Finger Lakes Landscapes: Landscaping for Water Quality in the Fingerlakes Region (pdf, 3.5 MB)