Conservation measures that provide growers with management tools such as conservation tillage, crop nutrient management, pest management and conservation buffers maintain the productivity and profitability of their land, and allow for more flexibility in crop marketing and use of beneficial crop rotation. NCGA wants to retain this flexibility and allow new policies and programs to assist in maintaining and expanding conservation measures on land in production. Programs that focus on conservation practices for land in production are essential for maintaining U.S. agriculture's competitiveness in a global marketplace.
Environmental stewardship begins on private lands. NCGA supports the use of conservation buffers as a vital addition to the conservation of soil and water resources. Conservation buffers represent a common sense approach to conservation and should be used as part of a complete soil and water conservation system.
To get more buffer information, contact your local US. Department of Agriculture Service Center; NCGA, 636/733-9004; or visit the National Conservation Buffer Council web site.
Alley
Cropping
Contour
Buffer Strips
Cross Wind
Trap Strips
Field
Borders
Grassed
Waterways
Herbaceous
Wind Barriers
Riparian
Forest Buffers
Windbreak/
Shelterbelts
Vegatative
Barriers
Filter
Strips
Photos courtesy of Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
How to use these photos:
The previous illustrations show examples of various conservation buffers. The brief descriptions indicate the most effective uses for each buffer. Consider the environmental issues you are addressing such as water quality and improved wildlife habitat, and match the type of buffer to your landscape and potential application.
Conservation buffers provide many benefits.
Intercept sediment and other pollutants from surface water and shallow subsurface water;
Reduce wind erosion;
Protect crops;
Provide wildlife habitat;
Connect fragmented land areas;
Provide a safety margin around creeks, streams and lakes; and
KEY ISSUES
