From: www.nrcs.usda.gov
Conservation Buffers Conservation buffers are small areas or strips of land in permanent vegetation, designed to intercept pollutants and manage other environmental concerns. Buffers include: riparian buffers, filter strips, grassed waterways, shelterbelts, windbreaks, living snow fences, contour grass strips, cross-wind trap strips, shallow water areas for wildlife, field borders, alley cropping, herbaceous wind barriers, and vegetative barriers.
Strategically placed buffer strips in the agricultural landscape can effectively mitigate the movement of sediment, nutrients, and pesticides within farm fields and from farm fields. When coupled with appropriate upland treatments, including crop residue management, nutrient management, integrated pest management, winter cover crops, and similar management practices and technologies, buffer strips should allow farmers to achieve a measure of economic and environmental sustainability in their operations. Buffer strips can also enhance wildlife habitat and protect biodiversity.
Benefits of Buffers
Conservation buffers slow water runoff, trap sediment, and enhance infiltration within the buffer. Buffers also trap fertilizers, pesticides, pathogens, and heavy metals, and they help trap snow and cut down on blowing soil in areas with strong winds. In addition, they protect livestock and wildlife from harsh weather and buildings from wind damage. If properly installed and maintained, they have the capacity to:
• remove up to 50 percent or more of nutrients and pesticides.
• remove up to 60 percent or more of certain pathogens.
• remove up to 75 percent or more of sediment.
Conservation buffers reduce noise and odor. They are a source of food, nesting cover, and shelter for many wildlife species. Buffers also provide connecting corridors that enable wildlife to move safely from one habitat area to another.
Conservation buffers help stabilize a stream and reduce its water temperature. Buffers also offer a setback distance for agricultural chemical use from water sources.
Like the trim on a house makes the house look better, well-planned conservation buffers improve the appearance of a farm or ranch. If used as part of a comprehensive conservation system, buffers will make good use of areas that often should not be
No-Till Drill
Planting or Improving Your Pasture?
What is it?
The no-till drill is an 8 ft wide farm implement designed to plant seed and spread fertilizer in one operation.
Why use it?
Saves energy, time, and labor. Help control noxious weeds, such as star thistle.
Decreases soil erosion
Conserves water
Easier plant establishment - pasture established in 1 season
Earlier crop production
Who can use it?
The drill is available to anyone in Nevada and western Sierra counties. Call NCRCD for a consultation regarding use of the drill on your property. Then contact Gold Country Tractor at 530-272-7251 to schedule a rental.
When should you plant with the drill?
Irrigated pastures: usually in the spring (NID supplies irrigation water between April 15th and October 15th), but can also be planted in the fall. Dry-land pastures: usually in the fall (rains help promote growth).
