Buffalo Bayou Park Vegetation Management Plan (PDF)

Chapter 5Significant Management ZonesSignificant Management Zones (SMZ) are those areas in the Park that require maintenance beyond thecurrent practices of the PARD, the Buffalo Bayou Partnership and other groups that work in the park. Sixof the ten vegetative zones have been classified as significant management zones. They were classifiedas such because they offer the greatest potential to preserve and protect aquatic resources, restoreecological integrity, restore natural structure, restore natural function, address ongoing causes ofdegradation and restore self-sustainability (EPA: River Corridor and Wetland Restoration). They alsocontain unique features such as upper canopy forest and small, flowing streams that, with propermanagement, add interest and aesthetic value to the Bayou.Sections 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 SMZ’s are already established throughout the Park. These areas need to berestored and managed for them to provide greater benefits to the Park. Sections 5.4, 5.5 and 5.6 SMZ’sexist in the park only as pilot projects. These zones are included here because of the success of the pilotprojects for increasing species diversity, wildlife habitat and park interest. Procedures for establishmentare recommended here on the basis of the lessons learned in the pilot project.October 2004 14 Buffalo Bayou Park Vegetation Management PlanBuffalo Bayou Partnership