*FREE* Buffer Plant Kit Application

for Bridgeport Residences and Businesses

Applications must be received by August 31, 2024

WHAT IS A BUFFER GARDEN?
Property owners can protect Long Island Sound by planting native trees, shrubs, and perennials to capture, clean, and cool runoff from storms. These buffer gardens not only look beautiful and attract birds and pollinators, but they also absorb water like a sponge to prevent pollution from running into our streams, rivers, and the ocean. Planted buffers also slow flood waters which protect property and improve human safety.

HOW CAN I GET ONE?
Aspetuck Land Trust is providing a Free Buffer Garden Kit to 20 lucky Bridgeport property owners who want to add a 10ft x 10ft garden of native shrubs, small trees, and perennials to their landscape.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO?
We will provide the best native “powerhouse” plants that will thrive in your landscape, just as long as YOU commit to installing them, watering them…and sending us photos.

Aspetuck Land Trust will provide plant information, planting plans, and instructions for planting. The kit will include a small native tree, shrubs, and flowering native plants for fall planting. Species will depend on availability.

RECIPIENT AGREEMENT

All Buffers for Bridgeport recipients must be residents of Bridgeport and/or own or maintain a property in Bridgeport. Properties will be assessed based on their proximity to a waterway and a property’s location in relation to Long Island Sound. In accepting plants, recipients agree to the following conditions:

1. Recipients are responsible for maintenance of the plants and materials.
2. Recipients shall water newly planted trees and shrubs as needed.
3. Recipients shall install a Buffers for Bridgeport sign (included with the buffer) on the property.
4. All applicants, by signing this form, are also pledging to do the following for a healthy Long Island Sound 1) Plant natives (like your free buffer) 2) Reduce or eliminate use of pesticides 3) Reduce the size of your lawn (where applicable).

Please complete all fields in the form.

Your full name in the ‘Signature’ field below indicates acceptance of the conditions listed above.