What is a Vegetated Shoreline Buffer?

A lakeside scene with a dock, kayak, and paddleboard, surrounded by green trees and a white house in the background.

A vegetated shoreline buffer is the last line of defense against polluted water reaching the lake and to protect your property and home from the elements; it is full of beneficial plants that soak up runoff water, protect soil, stabilize the shoreline, and create habitat for lake-loving wildlife. Buffers also protect lakefront homes from strong winds, offer privacy from neighbors, create cool, shady areas on the property, and can deter unwanted visitors from the lake, such as geese.

Infographic about climate-smart native plant gardening in the Northeast, including maps of plant hardiness zones, benefits of native plants, costs of non-native plants, and invasive species. Features images of native plants, invasive Japanese barberry, and butterflies.
A blue and black insect on pink flowering plant surrounded by green leaves.
A narrow strip of land next to a body of water, with wooden stakes and some pink ribbons marking lines on the ground.