Conservation Buffer zones are being established on Park Department Property along the banks of creek and pond edges to prevent soil erosion caused by heavy rains, severe floods and severe compaction from heavy maintenance equipment.
 
The establishment of this zone slows down erosion because the turf and indigenous grasses are allowed to grow taller and spread out more, thus increasing their ability to make food and establish a more extensive and substantial root system.  This increases their ability to hold on more tightly to soil particles when flood waters come through. The turf covered soil is also better able to withstand heavy rains and reduce the speed of water runoff. The CBZ also allows trees to become established along the riparian corridors. There are other benefits. CBZ’s trap sediments enhance water infiltration rates, filter fertilizers and pesticides, promote fish and wildlife habitat, and protect biodiversity. This is part of the City’s efforts to promote a more sustainable community.

Management of Areas designated as CBZ’s is proposed to be as followed:
• Vegetation shall not exceed 18” including seed heads at any time during the growing season.  (CBZ does not equal "no mow" or "no maintenance".) 
• Giant Ragweed and Johnsongrass are two species that will require diligent management in the CBZ’s throughout the growing season especially during the summer months.  Early maintenance of giant ragweed will produce greater results with less effort.
• Frequent inspection by District Supervisors and ADS’s of CBZ’s in their districts will be necessary to ensure proper maintenance heights are not exceeded.
• In order to provide an opportunity for park patrons to access the ponds and/or creeks around which CBZ’s have been established access lanes may be made where it is deemed necessary and appropriate. 

Signage
Areas designated as Conservation Buffer Zones should be signed appropriately in order to keep the public informed of our maintenance practices.