Landowners with property along streams, wetlands and moist bottomlands are encouraged to protect these riparian areas by planting trees that will create buffer zones, prevent soil erosion and attract wildlife.

Plantings of trees, shrubs, and grasses help to reduce pollution entering waterways by slowing down and filtering runoff. Buffers also stabilize shorelines and absorb high velocity water flows in times of flooding.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry has a variety of tree and shrub seedlings that are suited to wetter habitats. All are available for spring delivery from the Marietta State Nursery.

Ohio Conservation Seedling species such as swamp white oak, white and swamp chestnut oak, bur oak, river birch, bald cypress, arborvitae, red-osier dogwood and hazelnut are ideal for a riparian planting. All are available for spring delivery from the Marietta State Tree Nursery.

Riparian corridors not only prevent erosion and stabilize shorelines, they serve as wildlife habitat, increase overall biodiversity and improve in-stream health.

Selecting the proper type of tree for a particular location and soil is essential for a successful planting. The Division of Forestry's service foresters and nursery staff are available to help landowners in making the right choices. Assistance is recommendedfor planting projects larger than three acres.

For availability of various tree and shrub species and prices, or for a list of service forester office locations and phone numbers by county, contact the ODNR Division of Forestry toll free at 1-877-691-8733 or online at ohiodnr.com.