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Coastal Riparian Landscaping  Guide for Long Island Sound

In 2011, the Long Island Sound Futures Fund provided a grant to the University of Connecticut and CT Sea Grant to develop and conduct workshops presenting the value of riparian corridors in three Pequonnock River Watershed towns. the goal was to provide assistance in restoring and protecting critical stream and estuarine habitats, water quality and stream integrity.  Riparian plant lists and fact sheets were distributed about riparian site preparation and how to plant these areas such that municipalities, land trusts, and homeowners can improve and restore riparian corridors. An on-line guide was also put on the UCONN website to make it available for the entire Long Island Sound region.

Riparian corridors are the segments of land along our rivers, streams and wetlands including the natural vegetation and soil cover.  These areas can provide multiple benefits, particularly04 as the first line of defense against the impacts of surrounding land uses. Corridors slow runoff from precipitation, aid in flood control, and filter or trap pollutants. These areas can also provide habitat and corridors for wildlife as well as scenic value and privacy.  Within coastal areas, vegetated corridors can also be of significance in reducing the impacts of waves and overwash on properties. Recently, several major storms have caused extensive damage along the coast of Long Island Sound in both Connecticut and New York from erosion, scouring and salt spray.

 

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