NOTICE: PhillyWatersheds.org has been archived.

The archive will be available at http://archive.phillywatersheds.org for approximately one year (through September 2020). If you use or are responsible for content here that is not yet available elsewhere, please contact the PWD Digital Team.

Backyard Stream Buffer

What is a Backyard Buffer?

  • Homes and businesses that have backyards adjacent to streams can develop a “Backyard Buffer” to help protect the environmental quality of our waterways.
  • A Backyard Buffer is an area adjacent to a stream that is restored to its natural state by the property owner by eliminating mowing, installing native plants and encouraging natural habitat.
  • Poquessing Creek, Pennypack Creek, and many other streams that flow through Philadelphia are lined with private homes.
  • Why Build a Backyard Buffer?

  • A backyard buffer holds the soil together and reduces erosion.
  • A backyard buffer helps reduce and filter the stormwater runoff that pollutes our waterways and drinking water.
  • A natural stream bank is an attractive ecosystem that provides habitat for birds and riparian species.
  • How to Build a Backyard Buffer

    Follow these plans for your home type:
    Single Family/Detached Home
    Twin/Row Home/Townhome
    Condominium

    Tip Sheets for building a Backyard Buffer:
    #1: No Mow Zone
    #2: Green Lawn Basics
    #3: Native Plants for Pennsylvania
    #4: Tree & Shrub Planting
    #5: Composting
    #6: Rain Barrel
    #7: Porous Pavers
    #8: Live Stakes
    #9: Invasive Plant Removal

    Disclaimer

    This website content is provided to you on an “AS IS” and “WITH ALL FAULTS” basis. You acknowledge that you assume the entire risk of loss in using this information, including without limitation any loss incurred by any End User. You further acknowledge that this content is complex and may contain some nonconformities, defects and/or errors. PWD does not warrant that this website will meet your needs or expectations, or that all nonconformities can or will be corrected. PWD assumes no risk, liability or responsibility for the accuracy of this guide. See full disclaimer