Livestock and Forages
Plants for the Buffer Zone Around Livestock Ponds
Clemson Extension Program Team
Livestock and Forages; Water Resources
Publication Date
Fall 10-3-2023
Publication Number
LGP 1181
Summary
Healthy vegetation within buffer zones helps prevent erosion and intercepts sediment and pollutants (e.g., phosphorus) that can compromise water quality. The vegetation in buffer zones can include grasses, herbaceous perennials, shrubs, and trees. Once established, plants in riparian communities can develop thick root systems. Plant root systems contribute to improved soil health and bank stabilization and serve as a filter for sediments and pollutants that could wash into the pond otherwise. Proper management of the riparian buffer zones is needed to enhance stand longevity and support the sustainability of the ecosystem. This publication provides information on recommended plants for use in buffer zones of livestock ponds in three distinct regions (i.e., Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry) of South Carolina.
Publication Type
Brief
Publisher
Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension
Publisher City
Clemson, SC
Target Audiences
general public, beginning farmer, experience farmer
Recommended Citation
Silva L, White SA, Nix HB, Sahoo D. Plants for Livestock Pond Buffers. Clemson (SC): Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension; 2023 Oct. LGP 1181. https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/plants-for-livestock-pond-buffers/.
