Adopt-A-Stream Program :: Streambank Preservation

If you own property along a waterway, you can play an especially important part in the Adopt-A-Stream Program. The grasses, sedges and shrubs bordering streams, sloughs and rivers are referred to as riparian vegetation. They provide many vital functions for the waterway. They protect the bank from erosion, help filter out pollutants, provide habitat and migration corridors for many birds and animals, and provide food, protection and shade for fish, especially juvenile fish who predominately utilize this near shore habitat of a stream. Research shows that the wider this buffer is, the better it serves these functions. However, this frequently isn't realistic, especially in developed areas such as much of the Fairbanks North Star Borough. Waterfront property is valuable, and lots are often much too small to allow large undeveloped buffers. Property owners don't all have the same resources or priorities. Many waterfront lots have existing streambank stabilization in place, or have buildings and other facilities very close to the water. The guidelines we have developed recognize these limitations. Keep clearing of native vegetation and building of structures near the streambank to the minimum necessary given the size and uses of the lot.Use bioengineering techniques (instead of rock or other bank hardening techniques) to prevent streambank erosion, or integrate bioengineering techniques within existing riprap. If lot has been previously cleared, plant native shrubs along streambank for as wide an area as possible. Install any new septic system at least 100 feet from the edge of the stream (farther if streambank is eroding or likely to erode). Don't plant lawn next to streambank; leave buffer of native vegetation as wide as possible. Keep clippings, dog waste, etc. as far back from the streambank as possible. Read over the CONTRACT AGREEMENT and SAFETY GUIDELINES. If you agree to all conditions of the agreement and safety guidelines, please download and fill out the agreement form. We will need a signed copy of the form so please print the form, sign it and mail it to TVWA, P.O. Box 84104, Fairbanks, AK 99708.