Buffer Zone Planning Guide
This Buffer Zone Planning Guide helps growers plan buffers around fields, water and sensitive areas. Fill it in by hand and keep it with your farm records for later seasons.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideCrops & AgronomyFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Identify water bodies, wells and homes
- Check product label buffer rules
- Check state and local setback rules
- Map buffer areas on the field plan
- Choose buffer vegetation
- Plan buffer establishment and upkeep
- Mark boundaries for applicators
- Review conservation program options
How to use this guide
Walk a new hand through the steps once, then let them use the page on their own. Add your own notes as you learn what works.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with USDA NRCS and USDA.
For more in this area, see the row crop calendar. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Farm Succession Planning, and farming farm stories.