Buffer Builder Bag Program

Overview

The Buffer Builder Bag (B3) Program is a voluntary program and provides City of Raleigh property owners with free native shrub and tree seedlings to help improve or create a streamside buffer on their property. Streamside buffers help preserve and improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, reducing sediment, lowering peak water temperatures, and stabilizing stream banks.

Applicants will be eligible for one bag of 20-25 seedlings and recipients are chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The Buffer Builder Bags will come with support materials: riparian buffer guidelines, planting techniques, and proper maintenance on the different species of trees and shrubs.

Requirements

You must meet these requirements:

1. Own residential, commercial, or public property in Raleigh with at least 50 feet of stream or a drainage-way that outlets directly into a stream.
2. Participants must submit photos of the planting site, the site after the seedlings have been planted, and provide photos of condition at the one-year mark.
3. Participants must agree to care for the seedlings until they are well established.
4. Complete a follow up survey for future program improvements.

How to Apply

Complete the Buffer Builder Bag Application.

Application Deadlines:

Spring 2024 Season - March 1, 2024

Fall 2023 Season - August 1, 2023 (closed)

Contact Us

Are you interested in the Buffer Builder Bag Program but have questions? Send an email to BufferBuilderBag@raleighnc.gov or call us at 919-996-3779.

Please allow 24-48 hours for us to respond to an inquiry. We will get more details from you and ask that you fill out an application form if you’re eligible.