Climate Resilience
Nature-based Solutions to Protect Greenways and Riparian Buffers
Municipal Officials & Professionals
Backyard & Neighborhoods
Land Managers or Stewards
Youth, Parents & Teachers
The protection and proper stewardship of riparian areas along primary rivers, tributaries, and headwaters in the Nashua River watershed is critical in order to maintain good water quality. Lands that run alongside our waterways provide a buffer that serves as a natural filter for pollutants, prevents soil erosion, provides floodways, protects wildlife habitat, and can offer outdoor recreation opportunities in urban and suburban spaces. Vegetated greenways also aid community climate resilience by slowing stormwater runoff, providing shade to keep water temperatures cooler for aquatic life, and supporting biodiversity.
Upper & Middle James Riparian Consortium and GreenFin Studio
Nature-based Solution Idea 1:
Permanently Protect Greenway
- Create a 300-foot permanently protected buffer zone along all waterways using a conservation restriction or easement
Nature-based Solution Idea 2:
Slow the Flow
Reduce the speed at which water is traveling over the landscape by creating obstacles and avoiding channeling.
- Plant and maintain a vegetated greenway
- Create a rain garden
- Avoid impervious surfaces (blacktop, concrete) in greenway areas
- Fill erosion channels
- Avoid soil compaction
Nature-based Solution Idea 3:
Avoid the Use of Chemicals
- Do not use fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in greenway buffer areas (within 100 to 300’ of waterway)
- Apply herbicides required to eliminate invasive plants according to Best Management Practices to prevent water contamination
- Avoid storing chemicals or contaminated materials in greenway buffer areas and spaces vulnerable to flooding
Nature-based Solution Idea 4:
Plant Natives, Not Invasives
- Learn which native plants do well in greenway spaces
- Plant native plants that can also provide wildlife and pollinator habitat
- Remove invasive plants in waterside areas according to guidance from your local conservation commission
Tips and Resources
Wetland protection laws provide a level of protection for greenways. Before undertaking any work in a greenway area, be sure to contact your local conservation commission to be sure you understand any permit requirements and guidance needed for your project.