tree trib sign

Planting native plants and trees in riparian buffer zones water creates a habitat for wildlife and helps keep pollutants out of our water. Regulations that touch on planting by water are typically aimed at keeping water bodies clean, healthy and functional. All regulations center on the preservation of existing the water feature. Certain activities near bodies of water may be regulated by local, state, or even federal protections. Permits may be required if soil is disturbed, the character of the wetland is altered, vegetation is removed, or structures are built. In addition, in most local ordinances these activities are prohibited within a 100-foot-wide buffer zone. Local ordinances regarding streams, water courses and wetlands vary. Please call your local municipality for advice and guidance.

Title: NYS Protection of Waters Program
Sponsoring organization: NY State Department of Environmental Conservation
Description: Description of the Protection of Waters Program which was created to preserve and protect lakes, rivers, streams and ponds in New York State.  The More about Protection of Waters Program includes salient resources, for instance: ‘Protection of Water: Do I need a Permit?’, or ‘Protection of Waters: Application Procedures.’

Title: NYS Tidal Wetlands
Sponsoring organization: NY State Department of Environmental Conservation
Description: Plain English explanation of Tidal Wetlands protections with links to other websites. 

Title: NYS Environmental Resource Mapper
Sponsoring organization: NY State Department of Environmental Conservation
Description: A website showing NY States Environmental Resources on scalable maps. Click on the search button and enter address. 

Title: About Rare and Endangered Animals and Plants
Sponsoring organization: NY Natural Heritage Program
Description: A website detailing plant and animal protections, includes useful links.

Title: Soil and Water Conservation District
Sponsoring organization: Westchester County Soil and Water Conservation District
Description: Towards the bottom of the page are links to Model Ordinances on:  Erosion and Sediment Control; Wetland and Watercourse Protection, Riparian Buffers; Stormwater Management as well as a host of additional relevant and useful information.