Shoreline Vegetated Buffer Cost-Share Program

Overview and Guidelines: The Acton Wakefield Watersheds Alliance (AWWA) is offering a financial incentive program that will help keep the lake clean and healthy, as well as beautify your property. By planting native (local) shrubs, trees, and plants along the shoreline, homeowners can create a buffer that slows down rain runoff and filters out dirt and pollutants before reaching the lake.

Funding for the Shoreline Vegetated Buffer Cost Share Program was provided to AWWA by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation Great Bay 2030 Initiative. The funding is restricted to lakes and ponds affiliated with AWWA within the Salmon Falls Watershed, which is a part of the larger Great Bay Watershed.

You can apply if:

• You own a lakefront property in New Hampshire or Maine.
• Your property is on Great East Lake, Horn Pond, Lake Ivanhoe/Round Pond, Lovell Lake, or Wilson Lake.
• You want to add or improve a vegetated buffer within 50 feet of the water’s edge.

What does the program offer?

• AWWA will give $500 to homeowners who stop mowing and let natural plants grow in the buffer area.
• AWWA will pay back $500 for planting projects costing up to $1000.
• If your planting project costs more than $1,000, AWWA will pay for half the cost, up to $1,000 total.
• AWWA will work with you to design a planting plan that fits your property and ideas.

Rules to Know:

• The property cannot be for sale or in foreclosure.
• You must either fully own the property or be up to date on your mortgage or loan.
• Homeowners are responsible for planting and taking care of the plants.
• AWWA will provide advice on where to purchase plants and may suggest local landscapers.

Questions?

Contact AWWA at (603) 473-2500 or email info@awwatersheds.org with questions.