Database of sixteen riparian management measures

We present a database of management options comprising basic attributes to specific, targeted actions that can be considered modular options for improved riparian zone management. The application of vegetated buffer zones for watercourse protection in agricultural and developed lands is common place. Often though these strips fail to deliver their full potential for benefits due to mismatches between the buffer zone design with the landscape, magnitude and mix of pressures and the pollution pathways (for example surface vs sub-surface pathways). Yet, knowledge on a range of specific measures that may be used in the riparian space is developing across water quality, habitat restoration and natural flood management disciplines, but these are seldom considered together as packages of options for riparian and field edge management. This database draws together on the functioning, basic evidence, testing locations, guidance and effectiveness of measures across categories: baseline riparian margin space; surface runoff and sedimentation options; subsurface pathway options; in-channel options. These measures have been researched and collated by the Smarter BufferZ project (funded by the Irish Environmental Protection Agency: Research).