We All Live Downstream...

Dan River Basin Association shares this very valuable information with all of us! We All Live Downstream...

Our rivers provide essential water for drinking, fishing, floating and working. The Dan River and its tributaries such as the Smith, Mayo, Banister, Sandy and Hyco rivers are economic engines -- and the very reason many of our communities exist today.   Water quality studies show that while our region is blessed with rivers and an abundance of forest cover many miles of our local rivers and small streams need to be protected against pollution, sediment, and degradation.

Streamside Trees.... Like Money in the Bank Maintaining a stand of trees along rivers, streams - even the  smallest backyard creeks - is the single most important thing  we can do to protect our  drinking water supplies.

A cost-effective solution to these challenges lies right along the shorelines: streamside forests.  Trees and woody shrubs growing on the land next to rivers and streams buffer waterways against pollution and damage. With strong root systems, streamside forests are nature’s water filters, shock absorbers, and sponges; and they are also home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Take advantage of the resources in this Web site to explore more about leaving native stands, find out which trees and shrubs to plant and how to plant without causing erosion, and see examples of beneficial and harmful streamside activities.

You can make a difference! Download our brochure and learn more about streamside buffers. Find out how you can still have a great view of the waterfront, maintain scenic pathways, provide water for farm animals and so much more...all while protecting our essential water sources. It's easy! Discover how you can make a difference! Check out the Resources page, here, to find out which trees and shrubs to plant and how to plant without causing erosion. Also, see examples of beneficial and harmful streamside activities on our Examples page.

Visit the Dan River Basin Association website here for more information on this topic and to see how you can get involved! The next BRFAL Chapter Basic Training for Aspiring Virginia Master Naturalists is coming up in March at The Franklin Center in Downtown Rocky Mount VA! You can get the Draft Schedule of Classes and View the Itinerary here, and get the Information Letter and Application here.  If you have any questions about this upcoming basic training please send an email to:  contact@brfal.org  Learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program here. We hope to see you at the next training!