Live Staking: An Easy, Low-Cost Way to Improve Streamside Habitat

From small streams that flow through our backyards and community parks to the Pittsburgh region’s three rivers – the ways in which we manage local waterways impacts water quality and habitat value. The presence of vegetation along a waterway – also called a riparian buffer – can improve water quality, provide habitat, reduce erosion, beautify a landscape, and much more. Live staking is a low-cost, easy way to establish riparian buffers. Participants will start in the classroom to learn more about live staking techniques, appropriate species, and considerations then have the opportunity to apply those skills in the field at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve alongside ASWP conservation staff. This program is offered free of cost through generous support from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Five Star and Urban Waters Grant program.