Why maintain a shoreline buffer, what benefit does a shoreline buffer provide?

A shoreline buffer can help filter sediment and other pollutants (such as fertilizers and pesticides) from runoff that flows from the land into waterways, thus protecting the waters from nearby land uses. The shoreline zone also provides critical habitat for aquatic insects, microorganisms, fish, and other animals, thereby helping to maintain a balance in sensitive aquatic ecosystems. The Province of Ontario is consistently increasing the setback requirement for shoreline development as municipalities update their Planning documents (Official Plan and Zoning By-law). In Greater Sudbury, the new setback requirement was introduced by a provincial modification to the Official Plan when it was updated in 2019. Municipalities are required to update their Zoning By-law to be consistent with the policies in the Official Plan within three years of approval of the new policies. These policies help protect our lakes and rivers.