River and Stream Bank (Riparian) Restoration Toolbox

Purpose Statement

The objective of this project is to assemble existing materials that will be of use to local officials in drafting and implementing regulations to protect riparian areas. This site allows users to view, read, copy, or download documents, including: public education brochures, model regulations, scientific articles regarding riparian buffers, a glossary of terms, GIS data, etc. The materials presented here contain results of the library and web-based research and compose the River and Stream Bank Restoration Toolbox.

Riparian buffers can be a very effective means of reducing nonpoint source pollution (see Glossary) to receiving waters in developed watersheds, similar to that of the Long Island Sound.

The intended users of this site are managers, planners, engineers, students, researchers and general public who have interest in any of the following areas:

• Glossary of terms related to riparian buffer science
• GIS Data sources from governmental and public organizations
• Science research on riparian buffers and their benefits
• Education resources, including materials and links to sites specifically for public outreach, public participation, and public education efforts
• Regulations and legal issues for riparian buffers that have been implemented in NY, CT, or NJ
• Restoration map of project locations, and list of “Do’s and Don’ts”

Participating Organizations

• The United States Environmental Protection Agency
• The Center for International Earth Science Information Network (CIESIN)
• HydroQual, Inc. – Environmental Engineers and Specialists
• The Earth Engineering Center of Columbia University
• The Earth Institute at Columbia University
• Clean Ocean and Shore Trust
• Long Island Sound Study