Which of the following statements about buffers is true?

Buffers play a crucial role in environmental management, particularly in protecting water bodies connected to surface waters from various pollutants. The statement that all water bodies connected to surface waters can be buffered is accurate because buffers can effectively reduce runoff and filter out contaminants before they reach these water bodies. They can be established around rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands, regardless of the geographic setting, to enhance water quality and provide habitat for wildlife.

The importance of buffers lies in their function of stabilizing soil, absorbing nutrients, and managing sediment flow, benefiting both rural and urban landscapes. This versatility makes the buffering approach applicable across different environmental contexts, not limited to specific areas or conditions.

In contrast, other statements restrict the applicability of buffers to certain environments or conditions, which does not accurately reflect the broader usage and impact of buffers in maintaining the health of both surface water and surrounding ecosystems.