Edge of Field Buffers

Edge of Field (EOF) Buffers

Aerial view of plowed fields with a narrow strip of grass and trees running diagonally.

What are Edge of Field Buffers?

Edge-of-field buffers focuses on identifying and reducing agricultural sources of excess nutrients which can threaten the health of streams, rivers, and lakes. Edge-of-field buffers assesses the quantity and quality of agricultural runoff and evaluates the effectiveness of conservation practices that aim to reduce nutrient loss.

Why Plant Buffers and Borders?

Buffers/Field Borders and Wildlife

They can improve income on cropland or pasture, reduce risks from damaging insects, reduce pollutants in runoff water and restore beneficial farmland wildlife and pollinators.

Illustration showing agricultural practices: riparian buffer, drainage management, two-stage ditch, prairie strip, and wetland.

Photo Credit: LEADING AT THE EDGE : A Roadmap to Advance Edge of Field Practices in Agriculture

Informational pdfs/links

Integrated Management of In-Field, Edge-of-Field, and After-Field Buffers

Edge of Field Structures and Practices

Leading at the Edge: A Roadmap to Advance Edge of Field Practices in Agriculture