Protecting streams and floodplains is crucial to preserving water quality, as they naturally filter pollutants from stormwater runoff, reduce erosion, and help prevent flooding. Read below to learn simple ways you can protect streams and floodplains in your yard, worksite, or farm!
Table of Contents
For Homeowners
Stream and Floodplain Permitting
Flood Insurance
Reducing Runoff
Sustainable Gardening
Stabilizing Your Streambank
For Landscapers
Vegetation Management
Erosion Control Measures
Promote GSI’s
For Farmers
Livestock Management
Pesticide and Fertilizer Use
Erosion Control Measures
Ensuring Proper Drainage
Glossary of Terms
Stormwater – The water that runs off hard surfaces like roofs, roads, or sidewalks when it rains. Stormwater runoff is not treated before it flows to creeks, lakes and rivers.
Stream – A body of running water (such as a river or creek) flowing on the earth.
Floodplain – Level land that may be submerged by floodwaters.
Stream Bank – The bank consists of the sides of the channel in which the water flow is confined.
Riparian Buffer – An un-mowed strip of grass, shrubs or trees on either side of a stream that helps filter runoff and pollution before it reaches the stream.
Watershed – An area of land where all of the precipitation and water flows to a common source, such as a river, lake or ocean.
Best Management Practices (BMPs) – Devices, practices, or methods that are used to manage stormwater runoff by controlling peak runoff rate, improving water quality, and managing runoff volume (SPC Water Resource Center).
Green Stormwater Infrastructure – Constructed features that use living systems to provide environmental services, such as capturing and filtering stormwater, creating wildlife habitat, providing shade, and recharging groundwater (Watershed Management Group).
For Homeowners
Stream and Floodplain Permitting
When working on your property near a stream and/or floodplain, it’s important to understand your municipality’s or county’s possible floodplain regulations and permit requirements. Examples of potential projects that may require a permit include additions, sheds, landscaping, pavement, retaining walls, etc. These regulations protect water quality, prevent erosion, and reduce flooding risks while ensuring compliance with state and federal laws. Visit your municipal or county website for specific information regarding any required permits. For more information, contact your local stormwater department at the CWEP partner page.
Flood Insurance
Flood insurance is essential for protecting North Carolina residents from the financial impacts of flooding, particularly near streams and floodplains, which naturally manage water flow and reduce flood risks. Development in these areas can increase flooding, making floodplain protection vital. Since standard homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover flood damage, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers coverage to communities enforcing floodplain regulations, helping protect both properties and natural ecosystems. Even properties outside high-risk zones face flooding risks, with 25% of claims coming from these areas. For more information, visit the NC Department of Insurance.
Reducing Runoff
Managing stormwater runoff at home is essential for reducing pollution, protecting local waterways, and preventing flooding. By incorporating Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) techniques, homeowners can mitigate the negative impacts of excess runoff while enhancing their properties. These solutions not only manage water effectively but also contribute to healthier ecosystems. Below, we explore practical and eco-friendly strategies for reducing runoff and safeguarding the environment.
PERMEABLE MATERIALS There are many methods of managing stormwater runoff at home that can reduce the amount of pollution going into local waterways. Homeowners can choose Green Stormwater Infrastructure measures like permeable surfaces, such as gravel, pavers, or permeable concrete, instead of traditional paved areas. This allows water to infiltrate the ground rather than running off. Check out this EPA fact sheet: NPDES: Stormwater Best Management Practice, Permeable Pavements
BIOSWALES – Homeowners can also install bioswales—vegetated areas in shallow depressions that capture stormwater runoff, filter pollutants, and reduce water entering storm drains. Planting native grasses or shrubs enhances their function and appeal. When strategically placed, bioswales help prevent flooding, minimize erosion, and manage stormwater. Check out this EPA fact sheet: NPDES: Stormwater Best Management Practice, Grassed Swales (epa.gov)
RAIN BARRELS Installing rain barrels to collect roof runoff can also reduce the volume of stormwater entering floodplains and streams. This is also a great way to collect fresh water to be used later for purposes such as irrigation. Techniques include rain barrels, which hold around 55 gallons of water on average, and cisterns which are much larger and can hold hundreds to thousands of gallons of water. Many local governments offer rain barrels Rainwater Harvesting | NC DEQ. Check out NC State’s Rainwater Harvesting: Guidance for Homeowners.
DOWNSPOUTS Additionally, diverting downspouts to vegetated areas or rain gardens instead of storm drains helps absorb runoff where it falls, further minimizing stormwater flow and promoting natural filtration. These simple strategies can significantly contribute to stormwater management and floodplain protection. Check out EPA’s guide to redirecting downspouts: Soak Up the Rain: Disconnect / Redirect Downspouts.
Sustainable Gardening
Supporting stream and floodplain protection starts right in your backyard. By incorporating sustainable gardening methods, you can create a positive impact on your local ecosystem while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your property. Sustainable gardening practices not only benefit the environment but also offer long-term cost savings and increase the resilience of your landscape against extreme weather. Here are some strategies to help you protect waterways and promote ecological health through thoughtful gardening.
PRESERVE VEGETATION ADJACENT TO STREAMS Maintaining natural vegetation along waterways, also referred to as stream buffers, is one of the most effective ways to protect these vital ecosystems. These vegetative buffers filter pollutants, reduce erosion, and stabilize stream banks. By preserving or restoring native plants near water bodies, you can help maintain water quality and provide critical habitat for wildlife. Avoid mowing or clearing vegetation in these areas to let nature do its job in safeguarding our streams. For more information, check out NCDEQ’s Riparian Buffer Protection Program.
LIMIT FERTILIZER & PESTICIDE USE Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides can lead to chemical runoff that contaminates floodplains and streams. Opt for organic or slow-release fertilizers and apply them sparingly, especially before rain. Similarly, explore natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects or using non-toxic repellents. By minimizing chemical use, you protect not only the water but also the soil and nearby wildlife. For reduced-fertilizer gardening methods, check out NC State Extension’s publication on Managing Lawns and Gardens to Protect Water Quality.
RAIN GARDEN Installing a rain garden filled with plants adapted to moisture-rich environments is an excellent way to manage stormwater runoff. Rain gardens capture rainwater from roofs, driveways, or other impervious surfaces, allowing it to infiltrate the ground naturally rather than flowing untreated into streams. Plants such as swamp milkweed, sedges, or blue flag iris thrive in these conditions and filter out pollutants while adding aesthetic value to your landscape. Check NC State Extension’s guide to Rain Gardens.
Incorporating “rainscaping,” a design approach that uses landscaping to reduce stormwater runoff, can amplify the benefits of a rain garden. Examples include using permeable pavers, creating bioswales, or directing downspouts into vegetated areas. By combining these techniques, homeowners can significantly reduce their environmental footprint while enhancing their property. Check out NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Good’s guide to Backyard Rain Garden Designs.
NATIVE PLANTINGS Native plants support stream and floodplain health by stabilizing soil, reducing erosion, filtering pollutants, and improving water quality. Their deep roots prevent sediment runoff and enhance flood absorption, while providing essential habitats for local wildlife.
Native plants are low-maintenance, water-efficient, and environmentally friendly, requiring little to no fertilizers or pesticides once established. Their deep roots improve soil, reduce erosion, and manage stormwater by filtering pollutants. Incorporating native vegetation in landscaping benefits businesses, schools, and homes by enhancing stormwater quality and reducing flood risk. Click here to go to the NC State Extension Native Plant Toolbox to find what works for you.
MULCHING Mulching is a simple yet effective way to control erosion and protect your property’s landscape. By applying materials like wood chips, straw, or gravel to exposed soil or freshly planted areas, you can stabilize the ground, retain moisture, and improve soil quality. Mulch also slows down stormwater runoff, giving water more time to infiltrate the soil. Check out this EPA fact sheet: NPDES: Stormwater Best Management Practices, Mulching
WILDLIFE HABITAT ENHANCEMENT Enhancing wildlife habitats on your property can support local ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and improve stormwater management. Features like pollinator gardens and water elements not only attract beneficial species but also help reduce runoff and filter pollutants. Here are a few ways to improve your landscape while supporting wildlife.
- POLLINATOR GARDENS Pollinator gardens support bees, butterflies, and other insects critical to the health of ecosystems. Including plants like coneflowers, milkweed, and goldenrod ensures a steady food supply for pollinators while improving the resilience of your garden. Pollinator-friendly landscapes reduce the need for chemical pest control, benefiting nearby water bodies. See North Carolina Wildlife Federation’s suggestions for Native Pollinator Plants.
- DRAGONFLIES Attracting dragonflies to your yard is another way to support streams and floodplains. By designing a water feature with aquatic plants like water lilies or pickerelweed, you provide a habitat for dragonflies that naturally control mosquito populations. This eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments protects streams from harmful runoff and enhances your garden’s beauty. Read more about the sustainable benefits of dragonflies at the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Stabilizing Your Streambank
Stabilizing streambanks on your property is essential for preventing erosion and maintaining water quality. By using eco-friendly techniques such as planting vegetation, employing bioengineering methods like live stakes, or adding structural supports like riprap and erosion control mats, homeowners can protect their streambanks while enhancing the surrounding environment. Below, we outline practical solutions to safeguard your property and promote healthier waterways.
LEAVE VEGETATION Planting native vegetation, such as grasses, shrubs, and trees, is an effective way to anchor the soil and reduce runoff. It is important to avoid unnecessary grading and earth-moving activities near stream banks to keep soil intact. Check out NC State Extension’s Small-Scale Solutions to Eroding Streambanks guide.
LIVE STAKES Homeowners can also use bioengineering techniques like live stakes to naturally reinforce streambanks. Live stakes are cuttings from specific plant species that root and grow into full plants, stabilizing soil and reducing erosion over time. This approach is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and enhances the natural beauty of streambanks. Check out NC State Extension’s guide: Live Stake Installation Instruction.
RIPRAP AND MATS In areas with significant erosion, placing riprap (rocks or stones) or using erosion control mats can offer additional protection by stabilizing vulnerable slopes and preventing soil loss. These methods are particularly useful near waterways or steep embankments where erosion is most severe. Please consult local permitting requirements before installation to ensure compliance with regulations. Check out NCDEQ’s Riprap Practice Standards and Specifications.
For Landscapers
Selecting the right vegetation and design around riparian buffers is a crucial step for Landscapers to protect streams and floodplains. By using erosion control methods and promoting green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), landscapers can help improve flood resilience and waterway health. Understanding local regulations and utilizing sustainable solutions are key to responsible landscaping. Below, we highlight practical strategies.
Vegetation Management
Landscapers working near streams and floodplains should be aware of the critical role vegetation plays in stabilizing these areas. Landscapers can assist in designing riparian buffers that enhance flood resilience and support healthy waterways by selecting appropriate plants and ensuring proper placement. It’s essential to understand local floodplain regulations and to collaborate with professionals experienced in stream restoration. Reference our native plant resources above with NC State Extension.
Erosion Control Measures
MULCHING To reduce sediment movement, it is essential to cover bare soil during and after landscaping projects. Applying mulch, tarps, or erosion control blankets helps stabilize exposed areas and prevents sediment from being washed away, especially when work is paused or completed. These simple yet effective measures protect soil and reduce the risk of sediment runoff. Check out this EPA fact sheet: NPDES: Stormwater Best Management Practices, Mulching
HEAVY EQUIPMENT Additionally, scheduling heavy equipment use during dry weather can minimize soil compaction and erosion caused by wet, muddy conditions. To further protect the site, stabilize heavy equipment access points with gravel or geotextile mats. These materials reduce soil disturbance and prevent sediment from being tracked offsite by machinery. Check out NCDEQ’s Temporary Gravel Construction Entrance/Exit Practice Standards and Specifications.
Promote GSI’s
When providing landscaping services for both homeowners and commercial customers, landscapers can recommend installation of green stormwater infrastructure as an alternative to conventional stormwater systems. Read our “for homeowners” section to understand which GSI’s work best for residential properties.
PLANTER BOXES For commercial properties, landscapers can recommend installation of planter boxes as a versatile way to enhance aesthetics and manage stormwater. These containers can be used to grow vegetation while capturing rainwater, reducing runoff, and preventing erosion. Planter boxes also offer businesses the opportunity to add green space, improve curb appeal, and create a welcoming environment. Check out NACTO’s Flow-Through Planters Design Guide.
BIOSWALES (or swales) Additionally, landscapes can promote bioswales to commercial customers as another eco-friendly solution for managing stormwater. These vegetated ditches reduce flooding, erosion, and pollutants. This approach can help businesses comply with regulations and can lead to long-term cost savings (NCDEQ). Check out NPDES’ Stormwater Best Management Practice, Grassed Swales (epa.gov)
For Farmers
Farmers can play a key role in protecting water quality and preventing soil erosion, particular along stream buffers and in floodplains. Strategies like exclusion fencing, proper waste management, and careful pesticide and fertilizer use can reduce runoff and pollution. Erosion control methods help protect soil health, while proper drainage and water retention practices further manage runoff and flooding. North Carolina offers resources and cost-share programs to support farmers in adopting these practices for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
Livestock Management
EXCLUSION FENCING is one example of an effective method for farmers to prevent soil erosion and water contamination by redirecting livestock away from riparian areas. Other examples to protect stream buffers and floodplains may include installing stream crossings and providing alternative watering sources for livestock. By keeping animals away from streams and streambanks, this helps reduce erosion, nutrient runoff, and vegetation damage, which can adversely impact water quality. Cost-share programs, such as the Agricultural Cost Share Program, are available to help fund the building of exclusion fencing on qualifying farmland. For more information, visit NCAGR’S guide to Livestock Exclusion Fencing.
PROPER ANIMAL WASTE MANAGEMENT is also essential for preventing water contamination. By using practices like proper storage, composting, and controlled fertilizer application, farmers can prevent manure from entering waterways, helping to protect water quality. This approach also improves soil health and supports sustainable farming practices. NCAGR provides technical assistance to farmers through various Animal Waste Management Programs.
Pesticide and Fertilizer Use
NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANS (NMP) Implementing an NMP may help farmers protect streams and floodplains on their property, as they help optimize the timing, amount, and type of fertilizers applied to crops. By tailoring fertilizer use to crop needs and environmental conditions, farmers can reduce the risk of excess runoff that can contaminate waterways with nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Check out NCAGR’s information on Nutrient Management and NC State’s Nutrient Management Planning Software.
PRECISION AGRICULTURE This method helps farmers manage stormwater by using technology like GPS, soil sensors, and data analytics to apply water, fertilizers, and pesticides more efficiently. This approach not only helps improve water quality by minimizing excess runoff but also enhances farm productivity and sustainability by promoting more efficient land and resource management. Check out NCAGR’s information on Precision Agrichemical Application.
Erosion Control Measures
CONTOUR FARMING Farmers can reduce erosion by planting crops along the contours of the land, creating natural barriers that slow water flow, allowing it to soak into the soil instead of running off and carrying sediment. This practice helps preserve topsoil, reduces nutrient loss, and improves water quality by minimizing sedimentation in nearby waterways. Check out USDA’s resources on Contour Farming Methods.
NO-TILL FARMING No-till and reduced-till farming minimizes soil disturbance, preserving topsoil and organic matter. These practices reduce erosion, improve water infiltration, and limit runoff, which helps protect water quality and manage stormwater effectively. They also enhance soil structure and resilience to extreme weather. Check out NC State Extension’s resources on No-Till Management.
COVER CROPS: Planting cover crops in the off-season stabilizes soil, reduces erosion, and improves soil health by adding organic matter. These crops help prevent soil compaction, retain moisture, and protect against wind and water erosion. They also enhance soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, improving long-term productivity while preventing nutrient runoff into nearby waterways. Check out NC State Extension’s Guide to Cover Crops.
TERRACES AND DIVERSIONS: Terraces and diversion channels are effective in slowing water flow and reducing soil erosion on sloped farmland. Terraces create flat or gently sloping steps to help absorb water slowly, preventing sediment loss, while diversion channels direct water away from vulnerable areas. These methods improve water retention, preserve soil, and help maintain crop health, contributing to sustainable farming practices. Check out NCAGR’s resources on Terraces.
Ensuring Proper Drainage
INSTALL PROPER DRAINAGE STRUCTURES: Installing drainage structures like weirs, sediment basins, and grassed drainage ditches helps manage stormwater runoff, preventing waterlogging and soil erosion. Weirs regulate water flow, sediment basins trap contaminants, and drainage ditches allow for controlled water flow. These measures protect crops, maintain soil health, and improve water quality, ensuring long-term productivity. Check out NC State Extension’s guide to Controlled Drainage.
IMPLEMENT WATER RETENTION PRACTICES – Retention ponds and farm dams capture and slowly release runoff, reducing the risk of flooding and soil erosion. These structures help maintain water availability during dry periods and provide wildlife habitat. By implementing water retention practices, farmers can better manage water resources, reduce runoff, and enhance both crop yields and environmental sustainability. Check out USDA’s guide to Ponds — Planning, Design, Construction.
