Riparian buffers

When kept natural and well preserved, the riparian strip is of great ecological, economic, and recreational value and ensures a smooth transition between the aquatic and terrestrial environments.

The roles of the riparian strip:

• Slows sediment by slowing runoff and preventing soil erosion.
• Filters pollutants, preventing the proliferation of algae and aquatic plants by absorbing nutrient inputs.
• Refreshes the water’s edge by providing shade.
• Promotes favourable living conditions for fauna and flora by ensuring adequate temperature and a sediment-free environment conducive to reproduction. By keeping the water cooler, plants on the banks slow down the growth of cyanobacteria.

Source: Rappel

Maintaining the health and integrity of the lake requires a mobilized community. Special attention must be paid to riparian strips and their design. The goal is to maintain a vegetative barrier that intercepts runoff, infiltrates water flowing onto the land, and retains contaminants.

In order to fulfill all of its ecological roles, a riparian strip must consist of three layers of vegetation:

• Herbaceous layer, to slow runoff;
• Shrub layer, which, among other things, establishes a root network to prevent erosion;
• Tree layer, which reinforces the root network, provides shade, and helps the other layers fulfill their roles.

To ensure the lake's sustainability, the three layers must be within the regulatory 15 meters of a riparian strip. Also, in order for the riparian strip to function properly, it is essential that it be made up of species native to Quebec.

The plants selected must be adapted to the climatic conditions of the region and the characteristics of the site. The shore does not have the same humidity level from top to bottom, so it is essential to choose plants that can tolerate the conditions in which they will be planted. The species you plant at the bottom, in the middle, or on the flat part of the slope (bank) will not be the same. Consult specialists to choose the right plants for the right location!

Various designs for a useful and attractive riparian strip

Did you know that a riparian strip can be functional, pleasant, and attractive?

Although its primary role is to retain runoff, prevent erosion, and filter pollutants, a riparian strip can also become a lively and attractive space. By choosing plants that suit your tastes and the conditions of your property, you can create an area that meets your interests: grow berries, attract birds and butterflies, or simply enjoy a flowery, natural landscape. It is therefore possible to combine ecology and pleasure in the design of your shoreline.

The riparian strip can be landscaped in different ways, depending on the characteristics of your property (slope, sunlight, humidity) and your preferences. Good landscaping protects the environment, prevents erosion, and beautifies your property. Here are a few possible designs:

1. Riparian forest

The riparian forest mimics a natural wooded environment composed mainly of native trees. This type of landscaping is ideal for stabilizing soil, filtering pollutants, and providing a rich habitat for wildlife. It is particularly suitable for sloping terrain or banks prone to erosion. The shade provided by the trees also keeps the water cooler, which promotes aquatic biodiversity.

2.Flower strip

This type of landscaping consists of native herbaceous plants and flowers. It is well suited to flat or gently sloping terrain and attracts a wide variety of pollinating insects, such as butterflies and bees. Flower strips are also valued for their ornamental value: they add color and life to your waterside landscape while playing an essential ecological role.

3. Shrub strips

Shrub landscaping involves planting native shrubs with deep, sturdy roots. These are effective at stabilizing banks while forming a natural barrier against sediment and pollutants. Shrubs also provide food and shelter for many species of birds and small mammals. This type of strip is ideal for those looking for a compromise between visibility, biodiversity, and ecological efficiency.

4. The Lazy gardener style

This approach simply involves stopping mowing near the water's edge and allowing natural vegetation to reclaim its place. Without any structured landscaping effort, native grasses, herbs, shrubs, and young trees will gradually establish themselves, creating a diverse, effective riparian strip that is perfectly suited to local conditions. It is a solution that is simple, economical, and respectful of natural cycles.

Mix approaches for a personalized design

These models are not exclusive: you can combine the three types of landscaping according to your needs and tastes. For example, a shrubbery strip can precede a more wooded area, or flowers can be integrated along the edge of a riparian woodland to create a more decorative effect.

These models can also be combined according to your needs. For example, a flower garden can be adjacent to a shrub area, or a section left with free vegetation can evolve naturally into a riparian forest. No matter which approach you choose, it’s not that complicated to have an effective riparian buffer. A little determination, a few good plant choices... and nature will do most of the work.

• See the Guide to good shoreline practices for more information
• Rappel website
• Plant directory (in French only)
• Search engine for plants suitable for riparian strips
• Capsules from the MRC Brome-Missisquoi (in French only)

1- La préparation

2- La plantation

3- L'entretien

4- Résumé

The Municipality of St-Thomas has published development plans for 10 different types.

You can download the plans here.

These plans can be freely reproduced, and several types of developments (ornamental, edible, ecological) can be combined to create a customized, multifunctional riparian strip adapted to your property.

Our thanks to the Municipality of Saint-Thomas for making their development plans available for sharing.