CBLP-Buffers: Riparian Buffer Training in Design and Maintenance
The Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional riparian buffer training certificate (CBLP-Buffers) is a comprehensive program that prepares professionals to plan, implement, and manage riparian buffers—vegetated areas planted along waterways to reduce runoff, restore habitat, improve water quality, and reduce flooding risk.
This training supports the growing regional demand for skilled buffer practitioners and is available in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
The CBLP Riparian Buffer Training Certificate
Ideal for: This program is ideal for:
- landscape professionals
- municipal and nonprofit staff
- conservation practitioners
and others who currently work, or plan to work, on riparian buffer projects across the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
What you’ll learn:
- How buffers support water quality, habitat health, and flood mitigation
- Site assessment, planning, and native plant selection
- Hands-on experience with buffer installation and site preparation
- Best practices for buffer maintenance and long-term care
- Regulatory context and guidance for successful implementation
- Optional training focused on urban buffer design and restoration strategies
Learning format:
The full certification is delivered as a three-part series:
- Buffer Basics Webinar: Half day, interactive online introduction
- Planning and Implementation Field Workshop: Full day, in-person training on design and planting
- Maintenance Field Workshop: Half day, in-person training on management
Includes access to video modules, reference materials, and field instruction.
Participants must attend all three parts to earn the CBLP-Buffers certificate.
Why professionals choose the CBLP Riparian Buffer Training:
- Learn from leading experts across the Chesapeake Bay region
- Address real-world needs in Bay restoration and climate resilience
- Gain hands-on experience with buffer design, planting, and maintenance
- Flexible options for full certification or introductory content only
- Add credibility with a recognized, regionally respected certificate
- Get listed on the CBLP certificate holder directory
- CEUs available from multiple professional associations
Program schedule:
Trainings are typically offered in the fall (September–November) in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Upcoming training dates and registration details can be found below.
Cost:
- Buffer Basics Webinar: $25–$35
- CBLP-Buffers Full Certificate Course (includes Buffer Basics and two workshops): $250-275
Riparian Buffer Training Options
CBLP-Buffers Full Certificate Course
Buffer Basics Webinar (standalone option)
Urban Buffer Design Charrette
Program Background
This program was developed in partnership with the James River Riparian Buffer Consortium, James River Association, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, City of Lancaster (PA), Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and other regional leaders in buffer restoration.