Why be concerned?
Keowee’s shores are rapidly developing. There is room for 10,000 or more homes ...each a source of run-off that may contain garden chemicals, bacteria and nutrients from pets or septic systems, oil from autos, roadways or roofing, and silt from eroding soils. All adversely effect water quality.

What is a buffer?
Buffers are vegetated strips of land, or “green belts”, along waterways that stabilize the soil, slow, store and filter run-off, collect sediment, digest wastes, chemicals, and other pollutants, while providing wildlife habitat and adding to scenic beauty.

Preserving and improving buffers
Nature does a wonderful job of creating buffers. Where possible, natural buffers should be left undisturbed and encouraged to thrive. Where the landscape is developed, the following practices will produce the best result for the homeowner and the lake:

Buffer size
Wider is better, but anything helps. A 25 ft buffer will typically remove 50% or more of pollutants. South Carolina recommends 35 ft minimum and more on steep terrain.

What should a buffer include?
Protecting, and adding to, a diverse mix of native, unmanaged grasses, shrubs and deep rooted trees (or their cultivated relatives) will work best. Avoid any that require fertilizer, pesticides or frequent watering. Improve the soil by tilling in organic matter, and protect new beds with ample mulch of shredded bark.

What should a buffer exclude?
Surfaces that do not absorb water should be minimized: no shelters, decks or patios. Pathways essential for shoreline access should be kept narrow and winding. Invasive, noxious plants like kudzu, poison ivy and brambles can, of course, be removed. If herbicides must be used, choose rapid, bio-degradable types.

Drainage and erosion control
Concentrations of run-off from drives, down spouts or swales should be dispersed well back of the water’s edge to allow absorption into the soil. Eliminate bare spots. Undulate and stabilize swales. Exposed shore can be protected with stone rip rap or, preferably, restored with selected native plants anchored in mats, bio-logs and rock. The latter will provide both erosion control and a natural buffer strip.

Preserving views
Open corridors for views can be included in buffers, often adding a picturesque “frame” to the scene. Lower branches of tall trees can be trimmed. Bedding and under-story plants can be selected for moderate height.

Keep lawns well back from the shore
Lawns can be overwhelmed by heavy run-off and may require chemical treatment or supplemental watering. Even if chemicals are not used, visible lawns may encourage replication. A lawn is not a helpful buffer.

Learn more
Knowledgeable landscapers and nurseries can provide water-friendly landscape designs, plant selection and installation services. More detailed advice for planning and managing your waterside landscape, including lists of services, suppliers, and recommended plants are free for the asking.