Newaukum Creek Streamside Buffers
King County Department of Natural Resources & Parks received a grant to work with landowners along Newaukum Creek and its tributaries to determine interest in conservation measures. King County is partnered with King Conservation District, American Farmland Trust, and the Green River Coalition to implement this grant.
The purpose of this project is to improve water quality and fish habitat by protecting and revegetating streamside areas with native trees and shrubs. Newaukum Creek water quality is impacted by many factors including the amount of shade provided to a stream and livestock access to the stream and their buffers.
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of streamside buffers and the payment opportunities available to you, we encourage you to contact KCD’s Farm Services Program Manager carrie.king@kingcd.org.
Educational events about this program will be announced in the near future—stay tuned!
What is a buffer?
A riparian buffer is an area along a stream, river, slough, or wetland which, if vegetated, helps shade and protect the waterbody from impacts of adjacent land uses.
What does “in fee” mean?
Purchasing a buffer area “in fee” means that a real estate transaction would occur between the landowner and King County, with the landowner selling a portion of the property and transferring ownership to King County.
What is a conservation easement?
A conservation easement is a legal agreement that limits land use activities on private property to protect its natural resources. Landowners typically sell a conservation easement to a public agency while still maintaining ownership of their property.