Most of the states that make up the Chesapeake Bay watershed have some sort of purchase, rental and/or cost-share program that attempts to accomplish the same goals as this Project. Our desire is not to duplicate these programs but to enhance them. Where state programs reduce the financial burden of proper stewardship of the watershed, the RBP hopes to make this stewardship a rewarding, sought-after endeavor.

The Riparian Buffer Project has several programs to help build and restore wetlands and riparian buffers within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. These programs include:

• Restoration of riparian vegetation
• Bank stabilization and replanting to control erosion and maintain the integrity of stream channels and shorelines
• Reduce the impact of upland sources of pollution by trapping and filtering sediments, nutrients and other chemicals
• Installation of fencing along the riparian corridor to control and manage livestock and wildlife
• Modification of the existing land to create or restore historic wetlands
• Removal of nonnative invasive plant species and restoration of native riparian vegetation
  

To meet these goals, The Riparian Buffer Project offers these programs:

• Cost Sharing: Landowners interested in constructing or restoring wetlands or buffers can apply to the RBP for up to 85% cost sharing.
• Grants: For large projects in "high need" areas, we offer grants to completely offset the cost of constructing buffer zones and/or wetlands.
• Educational grants: Schools and community organizations who want to offer classes or seminars on the need for and benefits of riparian ecology can apply for financial grants as well as receive professional leadership to facilitate these classes.
• Technical assistance: We will provide professional and technical assistance in the planning, building and completion of riparian buffer projects to businesses, individuals and organizations who are interested in carrying out such a project.
• Land purchase: We will purchase outright "high need" properties, which will remain in our stewardship permanently.
• Land lease: We will lease lands for 10 to 15 year increments in order to establish riparian buffers.