Vegetative filter strips can reduce or eliminate sediment, nutrients, pollutants and pathogens from moving from agriculture production areas and into waterways. UC’s free publication, Vegetative Filter Strips for Nonpoint Source Pollution Control in Agriculture is a must read for commercial producers. Full of practical information and specific instructions for reducing pollution runoff, it is written in a style that is both easy and enjoyable to read.
In addition to the following topics, this publication includes a glossary of terms and links to US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) websites which provide additional in-depth resources for food producers looking to reduce soil erosion and runoff from their operations.
Main topics in the publication are:
- Definition of vegetative filter strips
- Key design elements
- Examples of pollutant removal efficiency
- Best locations for vegetative filter strips
- Observed nonpoint source pollution control
- Pollutant-filtering mechanisms
Due to the potential for great improvement to environmental health, funding through the USDA may be available to producers looking to add vegetative filter strips. For further information, contact your local NRCS office.
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