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Urban Riparian Buffers

Walla Walla County Conservation District (WWCCD) works with residents to keep waters clean for creatures and people as streams flow through town.

The Urban Riparian Buffers program aims to improve the water quality and wildlife habitat of streams that flow through the urban centers of Walla Walla and College Place. The best way to achieve this is to plant native trees, shrubs, and grasses, creating a buffer between the stream and development.


These areas are called “riparian buffers.”


How Do Riparian Buffers Work?

  • Riparian buffers effectively prevent water contaminated with pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals from entering our streams.

  • When mature, the trees provide shade to keep water cool, and their roots help stabilize the stream banks. 

  • Plants can be designed to minimize maintenance, reduce water consumption, and complement the landscape of your backyard.

  • Native plants are available from these Native Plant Sources.


Looking for Help Designing a Riparian Buffer for Your Backyard?


Riparian Buffer Resources

  1. Native Plant Resources

  2. Homeowner’s Guide to Riparian Buffers


Program Gallery

Check out our video on how to use the Dew Drop Drill 

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