©Danilo Lima, Agripalm Ambiental
The RRC database contains a wide variety of resources and publications related to ecological restoration, and we are actively working to expand this collection. It is our aim to serve as the principal clearinghouse for information and tools to support the work of researchers, practitioners, land managers, educators, students, and anyone else interested in restoration. Use the filter tool below to search the database by title, author, resource type, keyword, or any combination of these factors.
Although SER does review all entries in the database for relevance and quality, these resources have not been rigorously reviewed or extensively vetted in every case, and SER therefore makes no claim as to their accuracy or accordance with generally accepted principles in the field. The database is provided as a resource for visitors to the SER website, and it is ultimately left to the individual user to make their own determinations about the quality and veracity of a given publication or resource.
If there is a resource we missed, please let us know! We are interested in current books, articles, technical documents, videos, and other resources that are directly relevant to ecological restoration science, practice or policy, as well as resources treating the social, cultural and economic dimensions of restoration.
Mounding as a Technique for Restoration of Prairie on a Capped Landfill in the Puget Sound Lowlands
Abstract:Closed landfills create large open spaces that are often proposed as sites for restored or created ecosystems. Grasslands are probably prescribed most often because of the presumption that grass root systems will not breach the landfill cap. Capped landfills have a number of soil degradation problems, including compaction, decreased permeability, lack of organic material, diminished soil fauna, inappropriate texture, and lack of structure. In this study in the Puget Sound lowlands, Washington, U.S.A., mounding (low sandy-loam mounds, about 20 cm high and 2 m in diameter), addition of fertilizer, and mulching with yard-waste compost were applied to landfill sites as treatments in a factorial-design experiment. Mounds should probably be used as one element of a complex of habitats on restored landfills.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Natural Fire Regime: A Guide for Sustainable Management of the Canadian Boreal Forest
Abstract:The combination of certain features of fire disturbance, notably fire frequency, size and severity, may be used to characterize the disturbance regime in any region of the boreal forest. As some consequences of fire resemble the effects of industrial forest harvesting, conventional forest management is often considered as a disturbance that has effects similar to those of natural disturbances. Although the analogy between forest management and fire disturbance in boreal ecosystems has some merit, it is important to recognise that it also has its limitations. Short fire cycles generally described for boreal ecosystems do not appear to be universal; rather, important spatial and temporal variations have been observed in Canada.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Ngitili Agrosilvipastoral Systems in the United Republic of Tanzania
Abstract:Ngitili are farmer-led initiatives evolved from traditional strategies for grazing and food security. The system involves retaining an area of standing vegetation (grasses, trees, shrubs and forbs) from the onset to the end of the rainy season. The ngitili area remains closed to livestock at the beginning of the wet season and is opened up for grazing at the peak of dry season.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Nursing Plants in Peatland Restoration: On their Potential Use to Alleviate Frost Heaving Problems
Abstract:In this paper, we described the problem of frost heaving in cutover peatlands and an array of means whereby it can be diminished.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Perceptions, Not Facts: How Forestry Professionals Decide on the Restoration of Degraded Forest Ecosystems
Abstract:Based on the theory of social constructivism and the model of symbolic interactionism, this paper shows that a person’s readiness to implement restoration measures, inter alia, depends on the urgency of the problem. However, it does not (only) hinge on the ‘objective’ degree of damage, but (also) on the subjective problem perception of the decision maker. The empirical survey indicates, furthermore, that these subjective perceptions are—among other things— determined by social interactions. On the basis of these findings, we can derive a number of practical recommendations not just for science and research scientists, but especially for persons and institutions working in (further) education and in the field of extension services.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria: A Potential Tool for Arid Mangrove Reforestation
Abstract:The highly productive and diverse microbial community living in tropical and subtropical mangrove ecosystems continuously transforms dead vegetation into sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, and other nutrients that can later be used by the plants. In turn, plant-root exudates serve as a food source for the microorganisms living in the ecosystem, with other plant material serving a similar role for larger organisms, such as crabs and detritus feeding fish. This speculative synthesis of recent work on growth-promoting bacteria proposes that mangrove rhizosphere bacteria be used as a tool to enhance reforestation with mangrove seedlings. This can be done by inoculating seedlings with plant growth-promoting bacteria participating in one or more of the microbial cycles of the ecosystem.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Plantations as a Tool for Mine Spoil Restoration
Abstract:http://www.iisc.ernet.in/currsci/jun252002/1436.pdf
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Principles of Ecological Restoration of Boreal Forested Ecosystems: Finland as an Example
Abstract:The purpose of this paper is to outline general principles and approaches for restoration of boreal forest and peatland ecosystems. Detailed practical methods of restoration of specific forest and peatland types are not presented. The paper is largely based on experiences in Finland.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Propagating Framework Tree Species to Restore Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest: Implications of Seasonal Seed Dispersal and Dormancy
Abstract:One effective approach to forest restoration in degraded tropical forestland is the so-called ‘framework species method’ which involves planting 20–30 indigenous forest tree species to re- establish a basic forest structure that catalyses the recovery of biodiversity. For the seasonally dry tropical forests of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park in northern Thailand, a provisional list of 36 potential framework species was compiled, from 19 different families representing a broad spectrum of the tree flora. This paper examines the seed germination characteristics of these species when grown as a nursery ‘crop’ for planting to restore degraded sites, focussing on germination phenology and dormancy.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Rehabilitation of Degraded Areas of Central Amazonia Using Direct Sowing of Forest Tree Seeds
Abstract:Deforestation in the Amazon Basin is still increasing, and the rehabilitation of these lands continues to be a challenge. Autoecological studies of most Amazonian species are rare, and efficient techniques for restoration of forested habitats have yet to be developed. The aim of this study was to test direct sowing as a rehabilitation technique for sites with different degrees of disturbance: bare soil, pasture, and secondary and mature forests in Central Amazonia, Brazil. At each site, we sowed seeds of 11 native tree species. Throughout the following year we evaluated germination and seedling survival. There was a positive correlation between seed size and survival. Large-seeded non-pioneer species seem to be more suitable for direct sowing than small-seeded species. We recommend a combination of direct sowing and planting of seedlings as an appropriate means to accelerate the rehabilitation of degraded areas in Central Amazonia.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Responses of 20 Native Tree Species to Reforestation Strategies for Abandoned Farmland in Panama
Abstract:Deforestation in the tropics often leads to unproductive agriculture and results in abandoned, degraded grasslands that tree species recolonize poorly. To evaluate why forests do not regenerate naturally and to identify potential species for use in reforestation of degraded areas, we planted 15 000 seeds of 20 native tree species, varying in seed size and shade tolerance, in abandoned Panamanian farmland dominated by the exotic grass, Saccharum spontaneum.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Restoration Concepts for Temperate and Boreal Forests of North America and Western Europe
Abstract:Throughout the boreal and temperate zones, forest restoration efforts attempt to counteract negative effects of conversion to other land use (afforestation and remediation) and disturbance and stress on existing forests (rehabilitation). Appropriate silvicultural practices can be designed for any forest restoration objective. Most common objectives include timber, wildlife habitat for game species, or aesthetics. Increasingly other objectives are considered, including carbon sequestration, biological diversity, non-game mammals and birds, endangered animals and plants, protection of water quality and aquatic resources, and recreation. Plantation forestry remains the most effective approach to restoration of forest cover to large areas, and recent trends toward more complex plantations are explored. Rehabilitation of degraded forests increasingly relies on re-establishing natural disturbance regimes and emphasizes “close-to-nature” approaches to regeneration and stand management. The objectives of this paper are to clarify concepts of forest restoration and to present examples of restoration activities in temperate and boreal forests of North America and Western Europe.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Restoration of coastal dune slacks in the Netherlands
Abstract:Restoration measures consisted of re-introducing traditional management
techniques in dune slacks, such as mowing, grazing and sod removal, or constructing artificial dune slacks to compensate for lost biodiversity elsewhere. An analysis of successful and unsuccessful projects showed that
constructing new dune slacks was not very successful for maintaining new populations of endangered dune slack species, since such projects were often carried out in areas where seed banks were depleted, while hydrological conditions and seed dispersal mechanisms were sub-optimal.
Publication Date: 2002
Restoration of Natural Broad-leaved Woodland in Central Europe on Sites with Coniferous Forest Plantations
Abstract:In conclusion, decisions regarding extensive or intensive management, aiming at the conversion of coniferous plantations into natural broad-leaved forests, can be made following observation of the natural regeneration processes in the present-day stands. By utilising the natural regeneration processes and by applying only a few controlling silvicultural measures, a low- energy and cost-effective conversion of the forests can be accomplished.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Salt marsh restoration in Connecticut: 20 years of science and management
Abstract:In 1980 the State of Connecticut began a tidal marsh restoration program targeting systems degraded by tidal restrictions and impoundments. Here, we report results of this program at nine separate sites within six marsh systems along 110 km of Long Island Sound shoreline, with restoration times of 5 to 21 years.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Secondary Succession and Natural Habitat Restoration in Abandoned Rice Fields of Central Korea
Abstract:Floristic composition and soil characteristics (moisture, pH, nutrient contents) in abandoned upland rice paddies of different ages were analyzed to clarify the regenerative aspects of succession as a tool for habitat restoration. The study sites represented five seral stages: newly abandoned paddy fields; successional paddy fields abandoned for 3, 7, and 10 years; and a 50- year-old Alnus japonica forest. The pace and direction of recovery of native vegetation and natural soil properties in these abandoned rice paddies resembled classic old field succession, a form of secondary succession that often serves as a template for guiding restoration efforts. Active intervention, in particular dismantling artificial levees, could accelerate the recovery process, but natural habitat recovery generally appears sufficiently robust to achieve “passive” restoration of this rare community without intervention.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Setting targets in strategies for river restoration
Abstract:This paper concentrates on the concept of setting targets for river restoration as exemplified by the Meuse River. A modelling exercise shows the restraints of current habitat configuration and the potential for habitat restoration along the river. A policy analysis, using a strategic approach, illustrates the influence of the decision making process on the targets for natural river development. River dynamics play a key factor in determining the potential for persistent populations of target animal species along the river, with the help of an expert system
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Simultaneous ‘Hotspots’ and ‘Coldspots’ of Marine Biodiversity and Implications for Global Conservation
Abstract:These results have major implications for international conservation programmes which use biodiversity as a major criterion for identifying priority regions. Unpicking and prioritizing biodiversity’s different threads will help environmental organisations better define and target hotspot regions. Current applications of complementarity could theoretically be expanded from a regional to a global perspective, to determine areas in which biodiversity representation is maximal but concepts are not applicable to assemblage properties (e.g. taxonomic distinctness).
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002
Community-based Mangrove Rehabilitation and Ecotourism Development and Management in the Red Sea Coast, Egypt
Abstract:The community-based approach of mangrove rehabilitation and ecotourism enterprises should include the following components/activities: 1. awareness creation and social mobilization through a social marketing strategy; 2. capacity building of the local people as partners in mangrove rehabilitation and ecotourism; 3. liaison and networking by creating and institutionalizing a national coordinating agency or committee; and 4. capacity building of the technical staff of involved agencies to strengthen their social, technical and organizational knowledge and skills in implementing community- based mangrove projects.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies
Abstract:Reports on detailed studies in Raheenmoor Bog and Clara Bog, both in County Offaly, that were performed between 1989 and 2001. Containing a wealth of information on the two sites, including regional geology, regional hydrology, bog hydrology, and vegetation ecology, with much attention to hydrochemistry, this book includes an extra chapter on `soaks’, areas of mesotrophic or minerotrophic vegetation, occurring on otherwise ombrotrophic bog, which are usually associated with internal drainage systems. An overview is given of the relationships between biotic and abiotic conditions, again with much attention for hydrology and hydrochemistry.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Effectiveness Monitoring Guidelines for Ecosystem Restoration
Abstract:This document provides a conceptual framework and guidelines for effectiveness monitoring (EM) of restoration projects. It reviews the rationale for conducting effectiveness monitoring, and describes the sequence of steps involved in designing, implementing and summarizing the results of EM. Effectiveness monitoring addresses the question of how successful a project ultimately is at restoring the ecosystem or component parts. It involves assessing restoration progress in relation to initial objectives, and refining treatment prescriptions, where required, to increase their effectiveness. EM is a critical component of an adaptive management approach to ecosystem restoration.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Forest Landscape Restoration – Kenya Country Report
Abstract:This review is not a comprehensive study of the level to which policy and existing initiatives support FLR within the four countries of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia. It is the first step in a broader development process, and is primarily intended as a starting point to enhance general understanding, and promote dialogue within the region.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Forest Landscape Restoration: Initiatives in Ethiopia
Abstract:The study touched upon a number of issues. Some, such as the policy matters, are sensitive and others are technical and simple. For many of the questions paused on the evaluation of the conformity of a policy or forest regeneration initiative, there were no ready-made answers. The experts of the above mentioned bureaus had to think and think before agreeing on a score to be assigned to the various parameters. This report is a result of a preliminary work and gross judgement on the functionality of the forest regeneration and policy initiatives. The study may or may not confirm to realities to a greater extent. But, it certainly gives clue and indicates the directions for more effective and efficient future studies on the subject.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Freshwater Resources and the Rehabilitation of Degraded Areas in the Drylands
Abstract:Over fifty scientists from fourteen countries and international organizations representing various scientific disciplines took part in this important event. They addressed issues of desertification, in particular with regard to restoring degraded dryland areas, and the conservation and sustained management of freshwater resources in the world’s dry zones. Accordingly, these proceedings contain a series of case studies from Africa and Asia providing not only new insights into site-specific problems but also solutions which may be adapted to resolve similar problems in other desertification-affected areas of the world.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Habitat Restoration Monitoring Handbook
Abstract:This handbook is designed to highlight the critical considerations at each of the main stages of the monitoring methodology as follows: 1) Preparing habitat restoration monitoring prescriptions, 2) Preparing field recording forms, and 3) Carrying out habitat restoration monitoring.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Investing in People and Nature: IUCN Demonstration Portfolio on Forest Landscape Restoration
Abstract:This portfolio contains information about forest landscape restoration projects around the world. It has been compiled by the Global Partnership on Forest Landscape Restoration to illustrate the many ways in which forest landscape restoration can benefit both people and nature.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Rehabilitation of Degraded Lands in Humid Zones of Africa
Abstract:This paper therefore aims at providing background information for discussion by identified scientists and other stakeholders in order to produce the synthesis. The background information include the importance of the forest resource, the causes of deforestation and degradation, the rates of deforestation and degradation, rehabilitation techniques and strategies, policy, management and research constraints against rehabilitation as well as policy, management and research recommendations. It also includes suggestions on issues that the discussions should be centered on.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Riparian Restoration in the Southwest – Species Selection, Propagation, Planting Methods, and Case Studies
Abstract:Riparian plant communities, though small in overall area, are among the most valuable natural areas in the Southwest. The causes of degradation of southwestern riparian zones range from excessive cattle and elk grazing in montane watersheds to invasive woody exotic species and lack of natural flooding in the cottonwood forests, “bosque”, of low elevation river valleys. Goals of riparian restoration include erosion control, channel stabilization, runoff reduction, and enhancement of wildlife and fishery habitat. Plant species and stock types selected for restoration efforts must be appropriate for the site characteristics. Relevant site characteristics include elevation, soil texture and chemistry, and depth to water table. Vegetative propagation methodologies including pole cutting production, mound layering, and large containerized stock have been developed to provide cost effective plant production of riparian species. Plant materials and planting methods range from dormant pole cuttings placed vertically or horizontally to unusual container stock types such as 30 inch tall pots. Case studies are presented on the restoration of the cottonwood forests along the middle Rio Grande and Gila River and of montane riparian areas in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Turning the Tide: The Eradication of Invasive Species
Abstract:Our aim in organising the 2001 ISSG Conference on Eradication of Invasive Species and editing its proceedings into a peer-reviewed volume was to bring together conservation practitioners and scientists who are at the forefront of the battle against alien invasive species. This volume is intended to share their insight and practical experience with a wider audience.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2002
Changes in vegetation structure and composition along a tropical forest chronosequence: Implications for wildlife
Abstract:Changes in tropical forest structure and species composition that occur during regeneration following land abandonment may have important consequences for wildlife populations. Many animals rely on forest resources as sites for foraging, nesting, and protection that may vary in abundance in forests of different ages. In this study, we examined aspects of forest composition and structure thought to be important to wildlife along a tropical moist forest chronosequence in the Barro Colorado Nature Monument (BCNM) of central Panama.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2002