Saturated Buffers

A saturated buffer resembles a traditional buffer or filter strip, but it is designed to capture and treat water from underground tile drains. As water seeps slowly through the buffer, high organic matter in the soil promotes denitrification.

Michigan State University Drainage Resources

This Michigan State University Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering website provides education and practical solutions to address drainage issues.

View Website

NRCS Saturated Buffer Practice Overview

This one page factsheet from NRCS provides an overview of saturated buffers, how they fuction, and common associated practices.

View Website

ADMC Saturated Buffer Fact Sheet

This ADMC webpage provides information on saturated buffers including considerations for installation and financial impacts.

View Website

SWCS Saturated Buffers

This video, in the SWCS Conservation Media Library, shows how saturated buffers serve as a nutrient removal option for farmers.

Watch Video

Illinois NREC Saturated Buffer Video

Jon Schoonover with Southern Illinois University has designed a unique Saturated Buffer configuration that he has installed and tested in Moultrie County Illinois. The project is funded by NREC in partnership with Illinois Farm Bureau, Land Improvement Contractors of America (LICA) and others.

Watch Video

IL Farm Bureau Saturated Buffer Field Day

Illinois Farm Bureau, Southern Illinois University College of Agriculture, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association, and USDA-NRCS partnered together to bring Illinois farmers an educational demonstration of our latest edge of field practice. Together they are striving to protect our natural resources and seeking out new ways to be better stewards of our land.

Watch Video