Abstract
PAG Report 8 | Published June 1992 | Scientists are at different stages in their understanding of the several important functions provided by buffer strips, which include (a) temperature moderation, (b) sediment filtration, and (c) recruitment of large woody debris. Much is known about (a) and some useful predictive models have been developed. There is only a limited amount of information on (b), and a recent body of descriptive information pertinent to (c). The importance of buffer strips in moderating the impacts of forest practices on water quality and fish habitat is generally understood, even though quantitative relationships are difficult to establish. Very little information exists on what the effective width of buffer strips should be.