University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Landscape Architecture Franklin-Simpson County Riparian Land Management Riparian Opportunities in Simpson County Good Condition Poor Condition The preservation of open waterways in Simpson County is an important issue identified by community stakeholders. Simpson County possesses a unique landscape that is home to many ecologically important waterways, such as Sinking Creek, a historical karst water way; Sulfur Springs; Red River; wildlife focal point Robey Swamp; and Lick Creek. Water sources in Simpson County and their quality conditions differ from location to location especially along Drakes Creek. As the largest reservoir in Simpson County as well as the public water source for the city of Franklin, Drakes Creek was chosen to due a existing conditions analysis based on the measurement of existing vegetation that is along the creek. Through this type of study locations can be identified along the creek that lack proper riparian buffers. Based on visual analysis consisting of measurements of existing vegetation, we can differentiate the existing condition into three conditions. Best conditions which consists of areas that have at least 100 feet of woodland or undisturbed vegetation on both sides. Moderate conditions consist of areas that posses approximately 75 feet of similar vegetation. And Poor conditions that only maintain 50 feet or less of woodland vegetation. *Percentages are based on analysis of data gathered by measuring existing vegetation on aerial photography along measuring existing vegetation on aerial photography along Drake’s Creek within the Simpson County line. Drake’s Creek within the Simpson County line. Buffer Buffer – a distinct area managed to reduce the impact of adjacent land use. Riparian Riparian – complex hydrologic and ecological areas that serve as transition zones between surface water and the adjacent land. Riparian Buffers Riparian Buffers – although originally developed as an agricultural BMP to preserve water quality and prevent erosion, the multifunctional quality of riparian buffers make them useful in minimizing environmental impact from a variety of land uses. buffer’s value A buffer’s value exists not only in its ability to moderate erosion and sedimentation, but also by improving water quality, minimizing the base flow of streams, and provide a biological diverse habitat. Key Terms Ideal Riparian Buffer along Drakes Creek Benefits of Implementing Riparian Management Guidelines Increases nearby property values Reduces storm water/runoff flooding Reduces bank erosion/property damage Provides in-stream and terrestrial habitat for wildlife Provides stream shading to promote a healthier aquatic habitat Filters pollutions from runoff before entering the stream 55.9% 36.6% 3% Existing Vegetation 1,000ft buffer Drakes Creek Cross-Section of Ideal Riparian Buffer Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 No Mow Zones Management of riparian buffers can be approached in two ways. The first method would consist of the simple implementation of a no mow zone. The second method involves a more aggressive approach with reforestation. This method could be accomplished through donations and volunteer labor. The practice of either of these methods will result in a healthier, more attractive stream corridor. Which will promote a more diverse wildlife habitat and insure higher water quality for a more stable water source. Zone 1 Native species if available. Little to no tree harvesting. Water-tolerant species. Zone 2 Managed forest of fast-growing native species. Zone 3 Herbaceous or grass filter strip. Crops Pasture Poor Conditions Good Conditions Moderate Conditions Saddler Road Saddler Ford Road Drakes Creek Moderate Condition *Example of aerial photo that was used to categorize condition in Ideal distance or widths of buffers should be agreed on by local officials, property owners, soil conservationists, Fisheries Biologists, and other stakeholders. Stream Good Conditions Moderate Conditions Poor Conditions *Example of aerial photo that was used to categorize condition in *Adapted from Chesapeake Bay Riparian Lands Handbook /nsc/forest/handbook.htm Sources for Future Information Existing Conditions Pie Chart Riparian Buffer Vegetation North Scale: NTS