Ecological Engineering for Successful Management and Restoration of Mangrove Forests

Authors:
Lewis III, R.R.

Publication Date:
2005

Abstract/Summary:
Great potential exists to reverse the loss of mangrove forests worldwide through the application of basic principles of ecological restoration using ecological engineering approaches, including careful cost evaluations prior to design and construction. Previous documented attempts to restore mangroves, where successful, have largely concentrated on creation of plantations of mangroves consisting of just a few species, and targeted for harvesting as wood products, or temporarily used to collect eroded soil and raise intertidal areas to usable terrestrial agricultural uses. I document here the importance of assessing the existing hydrology of natural extant mangrove ecosystems, and applying this knowledge to first protect existing mangroves, and second to achieve successful and cost-effective ecological restoration, if needed.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Ecological Engineering

Link:
http://www.mangroverestoration.com/Ecol_Eng_Mangrove_Rest_Lewis_2005.pdf