Area residents interested in a hands-on approach to reducing pollution on riverfront property are invited to a buffer-planting workshop on Oct. 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at Cape Arundel Golf Club at 19 River Road in Arundel.

The workshop, organized by the York County Soil and Water Conservation District, is an opportunity for volunteers to help plant a buffer, or for individuals to simply observe and learn how to apply these best management practices in other locations – such as your own property.

According to a conservation district news release, a strip of vegetation allowed to thrive uncut along the bank of a river or stream will help to reduce runoff – and pollution – from ending up in the river. This is a proven method of keeping rivers and streams cleaner. The Kennebunk River has tested high for a range of pollutants for multiple years: the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has formally classified the river as “impaired for bacteria.” The sediment and pollutants in the river that are the result of heavy rains and runoff has never been more evident than this year when Maine had one of the wettest summers on record.

On Oct. 7, approximately 8-10 people will be needed in order to plant the buffer. Volunteers will plant about 50 plants in pre-dug holes at the golf course. They should arrive at 9 a.m. to be present for planting instructions, that will be provided at the beginning of the workshop.

All needed tools, such as gloves and shovels, will be provided. Staff from the York County Soil and Water Conservation District and the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve will work alongside volunteers during the workshop.

Those who want to volunteer or just observe should register at www.eventbrite.com/e/cagc-bmp-workshop-tickets717827099177?aff=oddtdtcreator.

For more information, email Alex Brown at abrown@yorkswcd.org.