Abstract
Buffers are strips or corridors of permanent vegetation used to reduce water and wind erosion (Fig. 9.1). These conservation buffers are designed to reduce water runoff and wind velocity, filter sediment, and remove sediment-borne chemicals (e.g., nutrients, pesticides) leaving upland ecosystems. Buffer systems are commonly established between agricultural lands and water bodies (e.g., streams, rivers, lakes). When placed perpendicular to the direction of water and wind flow, buffers are effective measures for reducing sediment fluxes. Buffers are a unique ecosystem established between two contrasting systems: terrestrial and aquatic. Their functionality is thus influenced by the interactive effects of both upslope and downslope environments.
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Blanco-Canqui, H., Lal, R. (2010). Buffer Strips. In: Principles of Soil Conservation and Management. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-8709-7_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-8709-7_9
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