©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.
Impact of Rewetting on the Vegetation of a Cut-Away Peatland
Abstract:We tested whether rewetting improved environmental conditions during peatland restoration and promoted colonization and development of mire vegetation. Vegetation change was monitored in a cut-away peatland one year before, and four years after, rewetting. The study showed that raising the water level to, or above, soil surface promotes conditions wet enough for a rapid succession towards closed mire vegetation.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Local Mangrove Planting in the Philippines: Are Fisherfolk and Fishpond Owners Effective Restorationists?
Abstract:Local fisherfolk and fishpond owners have been practicing “restoration” of mangrove forests in some parts of the Philippines for decades, well before governments and NGO’s began to promote the activity as a conservation tool. This paper examines ecological characteristics of these mangrove plantations and compares them to natural mangroves in the same areas. Important ecological and economic benefits result from local mangrove planting, but “catalyzing diverse forest regeneration” – at least in the short to medium term – is not one of them. The lesson: if you want to restore diverse mangrove forests, you have to plant diverse mangrove forests.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Mangrove restoration: Do we know enough?
Abstract:Mangrove restoration projects have been attempted, with mixed results, throughout the world. In this paper, I first examine goals of existing mangrove restoration projects and determine whether these goals are clear and adequate, and whether or not they account for the full range of biological diversity and ecological processes of mangrove ecosystems. Second, I briefly assess whether existing ecological data are sufficient to undergird successful restoration of mangal and define criteria for determining whether or not a mangrove ecosystem has been restored successfully. Finally, I suggest ways to improve mangrove restoration projects and identify key research needs required to support these efforts.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Paying for Restoration
Abstract:The question of how society is going to pay for restoration has received little open discussion. We review existing literature and examples to explore two questions: How should ecological and economic considerations be balanced in determining expenditures on restoration projects? and How is society going to pay for the substantial costs involved? We discuss a number of different techniques for determining the amount of money to allocate to restoration efforts, including ecosystem replacement costs, quantifying ecosystem services, contingent valuation, and surrogate market price techniques. We then review different strategies for paying for restoration including private funding by the party responsible for the damage, public funding through taxes, voluntary contributions, and various public/private partnerships. We conclude by discussing other considerations in developing strategies to pay for restoration, including uncertainty, time-scale, evaluating success, and regional planning.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Perspectives on Setting Success Criteria for Wetland Restoration
Abstract:Measurements of vegetation are most commonly used in evaluations of restoration projects, with less frequent analysis of soils, fauna, and hydrologic characteristics. Although particular characteristics of projects, such as vegetative cover and production, can resemble those in similar naturally occurring wetlands, overall functional equivalency has not been demonstrated. However, ongoing research is providing information on what can and cannot be accomplished, valuable insights on how to correct mistakes, and new approaches to defining success. The challenge is how to recognize and deal with the uncertainty, given that projects are ecologically young and that our knowledge of the process of restoration is evolving. One way to deal with the uncertainty is to use scientific principles of hypothesis testing and model building in an adaptive management framework. In this way, options can be systematically evaluated and needs for corrective actions identified when a project is not progressing toward goals. By taking such an approach we can improve our ability to reliably restore wetlands while contributing to our understanding of the basic structure and function of ecosystems.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
A Rehabilitation Manual for Australian Streams Volume 1
Abstract:This manual is designed to help those professional managers who are accepting the challenge of rehabilitating the physical and biological condition of Australian streams. The concepts provide a firm basis for planning a rehabilitation strategy, while the typical problems and tools provide resources that could be useful to the manager. It is important to emphasise that this is not a catchment or stream management manual. There are many reasons to intervene in streams and catchments that are not related to rehabilitation of the natural stream values. Thus, the manual will only touch on issues such as erosion control, water supply, flooding, and the sociology of management, in so far as they affect rehabilitation.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
A Rehabilitation Manual for Australian Streams Volume 2
Abstract:This manual is designed to help those professional managers who are accepting the challenge of rehabilitating the physical and biological condition of Australian streams. The concepts provide a firm basis for planning a rehabilitation strategy, while the typical problems and tools provide resources that could be useful to the manager. It is important to emphasise that this is not a catchment or stream management manual. There are many reasons to intervene in streams and catchments that are not related to rehabilitation of the natural stream values. Thus, the manual will only touch on issues such as erosion control, water supply, flooding, and the sociology of management, in so far as they affect rehabilitation.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Guidelines for Erosion and Desertification Control Management with Particular Reference to Mediterranean Coastal Areas
Abstract:The objectives of the present guidelines are related to mitigation of erosion and desertification processes in the region and preparation of a practical document to be used as tool when formulating and planning relevant control management programmes and projects. The guidelines are intended for experts and professionals involved in the control management process, experts in relevant sectoral activities, and decision makers responsible for mitigation and control of erosion and desertification phenomena and processes.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Guidelines for the Re-introduction of Galliformes for Conservation Purposes
Abstract:These guidelines provide background information on the aims and objectives of a re- introduction and the issues to consider during the planning phase. The taxonomy, ecology and conservation status of Galliformes is introduced and covers all of the sub-groups: megapodes, cracids, grouse, partridges, quails, francolins, snowcocks, guineafowl and turkeys, and pheasants.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
New York State Salt Marsh Restoration and Monitoring Guidelines
Abstract:This document is primarily intended to guide voluntary restoration projects, not mitigation projects. Mitigation projects are constrained by specific regulatory standards. This document does not modify or waive any program standards for mitigation. In addition, while voluntary projects are more flexible in goal setting and design, such projects will nevertheless be subject to regulatory requirements, including permits and approvals from the State and federal government. The Salt Marsh Restoration and Monitoring Guidelines are primarily intended for use with projects sponsored by municipalities. Individuals with ideas for restoration projects are strongly encouraged to collaborate with their municipality, and to contact regional Department of Environmental Conservation staff prior to project planning.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Principles for the Ecological Restoration of Aquatic Resources
Abstract:These principles focus on scientific and technical issues, but as in all environmental management activities, the importance of community perspectives and values should not be overlooked. The presence or absence of public support for a restoration project can be the difference between positive results and failure. Coordination with the people and organizations that may be affected by the project can help build the support needed to get the project moving and ensure long-term protection of the restored area. In addition, partnership with stakeholders can also add useful resources, ranging from money and technical expertise to volunteer help with implementation and monitoring.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
EU Water Directive
Abstract:The purpose of this Directive is to establish a framework for the protection of inland surface waters, transitional waters, coastal waters and groundwater which…
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2000
Dams, Ecosystem Functions and Environmental Restoration
Abstract:There are four principal categories of measures that may be incorporated into dam design or operating regime in order to respond to the environmental impacts identified through an EIA. These are: i) measures that avoid anticipated adverse effects of a dam; ii) mitigation measures that are incorporated into a new or existing dam design or operating regime in order to eliminate, offset or reduce ecosystem impacts to acceptable levels; iii) measures that compensate for existing or anticipated adverse effects that cannot be avoided or mitigated; iv) de-commissioning of the dam and restoration of the riverine ecosystem. Within this framework of avoidance, mitigation, compensation and restoration, there are a wide range of specific measures that can be taken appropriate to specific circumstances of each dam.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Forest Restoration and Community Participation: Case Studies in Thailand
Abstract:Case studies in Thailand show how people can be mobilised to address local concerns and in doing so make substantial gains in restoring lost habitat and developing sustainable resource use systems. Community participation, capacity building and resolution of underlying resource and land use conflicts were the basis of these successful restoration efforts. The role of community participation should be considered from the onset of any restoration effort. Gains made in the area of habitat restoration are likely to be based on the development of equal partnerships with local communities as well as effective support in the form of local community capacity-building and conflict resolution.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Prioritisation of Target Areas for Forest Restoration
Abstract:Loss of forest cover not only limits the scope of biodiversity and genetic conservation but also diminishes the prospect of many rural and coastal populations throughout the developing world attaining a decent and secure livelihood. In many areas, faltering clean water supplies, catastrophic floods and landslides, declining fish stocks and unreliable local weather patterns can be traced back to impaired forest ecosystem functions. This report for WWF and IUCN shows how GIS can be used to prioritise areas for forest restoration. Candidate social and ecological criteria are identified at a regional level. The Mediterranean region is used as a case study.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Rehabilitation of Degraded Forest Ecosystems in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Vietnam: An Overview
Abstract:The ultimate purpose of this work and future IUCN initiatives is to assist stakeholders in the lower Mekong countries to develop and implement ecologically and socio-economically sound forest rehabilitation policies and practices. The intentions of this report are to provide an overview and broad assessment of relevant forest policy and practices, and to encourage discussion among key decision-makers about preferred principles and criteria for guiding future forest rehabilitation programmes.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Restoring the Urban Forest Ecosystem
Abstract:Urban and community forests are often managed as individual trees instead of whole forest ecosystems. Cities inventory and manage these tree species to meet many important needs such as energy conservation, beauty, and recreation in the city. Yet, there are many opportunities for urban forest restoration to provide additional ecological benefits such as storm-water management, wildlife management, and biodiversity. Restoring the urban forest ecosystem is reestablishing the ecological health of the urban forest ecosystem. The goal of restoration is to return the urban forest to a form which is more ecologically sustainable for the community; the restored urban forest will contribute positively to the community instead of being a drain on its resources.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Thinning, Fire and Forest Restoration: A Science-based Approach for National Forests in the Interior Northwest
Abstract:This is neither an exhaustive review of the literature, nor an attempt to address all issues related to forest restoration. Rather, it is an attempt to review the most pertinent scientific literature, merge these findings with policy requirements, and provide recommendations on how best to proceed. Qualitative judgment will inevitably be involved, and what follows should be viewed as general principles, considerations, or rules-of-thumb.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
Wise Use of Floodplains: A Review of 12 WWF River Restoration Projects across Europe
Abstract:This study was carried out as part of the “Wise Use of Floodplains” project led by BirdLife International and supported by the EU Life- Environment Programme. It was coordinated and supported by the WWF European Freshwater Programme and supervised by the WWF Germany Floodplain Institute in Rastatt. The study tries to summarise the experiences gained from many different WWF river restoration projects across Europe. In particular it addresses the following questions: What are the lessons learned in planning, implementing and constructing river restoration? What role does WWF play? Who are the main partners? What are the ecological, social and economic benefits of the wise use of rivers? What and where are the major constraints to river restoration in Europe?
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2000
The Potential for Carbon Sequestration through Reforestation of Abandoned Tropical Agricultural and Pasture Lands
Abstract:Approximately half of the tropical biome is in some stage of recovery from past human disturbance, most of which is in secondary forests growing on abandoned agricultural lands and pastures. Reforestation of these abandoned lands, both natural and managed, has been proposed as a means to help offset increasing carbon emissions to the atmosphere. In this paper we discuss the potential of these forests to serve as sinks for atmospheric carbon dioxide in aboveground biomass and soils. A review of literature data shows that aboveground biomass increases at a rate of 6.2 Mg ha_1 yr_1 d_ring the first 2_ years of s_ccession, and at a rate of 2.9 Mg ha_1 yr_1 over the first __ years of regrowth. __ring the first 2_ years of regrowth, forests in wet life zones have the fastest rate of aboveground carbon accumulation with reforestation, followed by dry and moist forests.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
The Role of Soil Seed Banks in the Rehabilitation of Degraded Hillslopes in Southern Wello, Ethiopia
Abstract:The species composition in the soil seed bank of degraded hillslopes in southern Wello, Ethiopia, was assessed using the seedling emergence method and compared with that of the standing vegetation. Although most of the species that germinated in the seed banks were herbs and grasses, they can develop a vegetative cover and contribute to reduction of soil erosion. Regeneration of the tree species (some of which have seed viability up to four years) however, requires both time and the presence of mature individuals. Together with hillside closure and soil conservation measures (e.g., terracing), planting of native woody seedlings might help to expedite rehabilitation of degraded hillslopes devoid of trees and shrubs.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Tropical Montane Forest Restoration in Costa Rica: Overcoming Barriers to Dispersal and Establishment
Abstract:This article provides a review of the factors limiting pasture recovery in tropical montane areas of Costa Rica and how forest managers can implement strategies to overcome these limitations, thereby facilitating ecosystem recovery. Firstly, the authors describe that the lack of seed dispersal from forests into pastures is one of the most important factors limiting the regeneration potential of forest species. Secondly, the competition between seedlings and pasture grasses can limit the survival and growth potential of the seedlings. Other factors include seed predation, low germination, lack of nutrients, high light intensity, and herbivory. To facilitate regeneration despite these limitations, the authors suggest planting native tree seedlings or early-succession shrubs that can shade out grasses and enhance seed dispersal. Along with shading structures that reduce grass cover, perching structures can help increase dispersal. The authors assert that the development of strategies for ecosystem recovery is highly dependent on a good understanding of the biology of an ecosystem.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Using Landscape Hierarchies to Guide Restoration of Disturbed Ecosystems
Abstract:Hierarchy theory provides a conceptual approach for predicting plant communities of disturbed ecosystems and, ultimately, for prioritizing restoration efforts. We demonstrate this approach using a landscape in southwestern Georgia, USA. Specifically, we used an existing hierarchical ecosystem classification, based on geomorphology, soil, and vegetation, to identify reference plant communities for each type of ecosystem in the landscape.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2000
Termite- and Mulch-Mediated Rehabilitation of Vegetation on Crusted Soil in West Africa
Abstract:The rehabilitation of vegetation on structurally crusted soils by triggering termite activity through mulch was studied on three soil types in northern Burkina Faso, West Africa. A split- plot design was used in a fenced environment for the experiment. Insecticide (Dieldrin) was used at a rate of 500 g a.i. (active ingredient)/ha to create nontermite and termite plots. Three mulch types consisting of straw (Pennisetum pedicellatum), woody material (Pterocarpus lucens), and a composite mulch (straw and woody material) applied at a rate of 3, 6, and 4 tons/ha, respectively, were used to trigger termite activity. Analysis of the termite and mulch interaction indicated that mulch plots without termites did not perform better than bare plots, especially in the case of woody plant regeneration. Vegetation rehabilitation was best with composite and straw mulches with termites, followed by woody mulch with termites; it was worst on bare plots.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 1999
The assessment of restoration of habitat in urban wetlands
Abstract:Several factors have contributed to poor assessment of restoration of urban wetlands. First, often the goals of restoration
have been unrealistic because they failed to consider that wetlands in urban areas are subjected to ongoing and often largescale
anthropogenic disturbances. Second, goals of restoration often have not been clearly de®ned and, consequently,
predictive hypotheses were not formulated to test for the success of restoration. Third, even when success of restoration has
been assessed, this has not always been adequate because of inappropriate sampling design.
Publication Date: 1999
The Rehabilitation of the Tampa Bay Estuary, Florida, USA, as an Example of Successful Integrated Coastal Management
Abstract:The first suggestion that controls on eutrophication and dredging impacts were needed came in 1969. The federal Water Pollution Control Administration recommended a water quality management plan and waste abatement program to control odour and other pollution symptoms in Hillsborough Bay, and a master plan for dredging and filling the bay.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 1999
Wetland Restoration in Central Europe: Aims and Methods
Abstract:Rewetting and oligotrophication are the most common approaches to boost biodiversity in fen ecosystems in Central and Western Europe. Rewetting includes both quantitative and qualitative aspects, requiring quantitative hydrological models and chemical analyses of the groundwater in the region. In addition, re-introduction of species is often necessary, at least in heavily fragmented cultural landscapes. Transfer of hay from donor areas to severely damaged, seed-depleted peatland to restore fen meadows, was successful. However, despite short-term successes, complete restoration of wetland areas requires a long period of time.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 1999
Zai_ Practice: A West African Traditional Rehabilitation System for Semiarid Degraded Lands, a Case Study in Burkina Faso
Abstract:For degraded soil productivity, restoration, and green cover rehabilitation, it is essential to study and improve traditional farming systems, especially in the Sudano-Sahelian areas, where technical possibilities are limited. One example is the Zai_ practice, a very complex soil restoration system using organic matter localization, termites to bore channels in the crusted soils, runoff capture in microwatersheds, and seed hole cropping of sorghum or millet on sandy soils. Investigation on many fields of the Mossi Plateau (northern part of Burkina Faso) has shown a range of variations of the Zai_ system in relation to soil texture, availability of labor and organic matter, and relevance for rehabilitation of these degraded crusted soils. We describe a complex soil restoration system revealed during our 2 years of inquiries and experiments testing this system in two types of soil (a shallow, poor apso1 and a deep, brown tropical inceptisol).
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 1999
Chesapeake Oyster Reefs, Their Importance, Destruction and Guidelines for Restoring Them
Abstract:As a consequence, Hargis and Haven (unpublished reports) have urged in several public forums since early 1991 the rebuilding, or replacement, of oyster reefs as a measure in restoring the population levels and viability of C. virginica and the industry dependent thereon on the public or natural oyster grounds. We again recommend this restorative action. Doing so, whether by passive (simple recuperative closure) or active (actual replenishment by shells and/or seed, plus significant recuperative closure) restoration or by new construction (also aided by closure), will require careful planning, site selection and design. Below we develop and support these conclusions and offer some guidelines for restoration.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 1999
Forest Restoration in Abandoned Agricultural Land: A Case Study from East Africa
Abstract:Millions of hectares of tropical forests have been converted to agricultural land and abandoned, so it is important that we understand the process of forest recovery and comprehend how pathways are modified by different types of disturbance in different geographic regions. In a 4- year case study, we quantified the pattern of forest recovery following clearing and 3 years of cultivation of a moist-evergreen forest in Uganda.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 1999