DEVELOPMENT OF COASTAL VEGETATED BUFFER PROGRAMS

This article describes a multiple benefit/multiple use approach to imp lementing vegetated buffers, using as an example a program adopted by the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program. The multiple be nefit/multiple use approach capitalizes on the inherent ability of veg etated buffers to perform multiple functions, such as pollutant remova l, habitat protection, scenic improvement, erosion control, and histor ic/archaeological site presentation. These benefits provide a more rob ust means for justifying vegetated buffer implementation, and should h elp develop a broader constituency for the adoption of vegetated buffe r policies. Application of vegetated buffers for residential and other developing lands has not been adequately addressed in existing vegeta ted buffer implementation efforts. We present one solution to implemen ting vegetated buffers on residential and developing lands. The approa ch and background information should prove useful for the application of vegetated buffers outside of coastal regions, and promotes a move h olistic and integrated view of management practices as well as the con cept of management for sustainable ecosystems.