©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.
Technical Guidelines for the Delineation, Restoration, and Monitoring of Eelgrass (Zostera marina) in Massachusetts Coastal Waters
Abstract:This technical report presents Marine Fisheries’ recommended methods to delineate eelgrass at a project site, conduct a restoration/mitigation effort by transplanting eelgrass into a carefully selected location, and monitor the restored habitat to ensure that it has met success criteria. Eelgrass surveys should be conducted before the project design is finalized. Surveys should include an assessment of available resource maps, followed by a field survey to more accurately define the perimeter of the existing meadow.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Addressing Change in Wetland Ecological Character: Addressing Change in the Ecological Character of Ramsar Sites and other Wetlands
Abstract:This Handbook provides the guidance adopted by Contracting Parties on procedures and responses concerning what to do if the ecological character of a designated Ramsar Site is detected to have deteriorated, or to be likely to deteriorate, in particular as a result of human- induced change or likely change.
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2010
An Eco-Compensation Policy Framework for the People’s Republic of China: Challenges and Opportunities
Abstract:This paper credits the PRC with having gained a wealth of experience with eco-compensation, which should influence both domestic and international understanding of the role of government in sustainable ecosystem services. This paper discusses the evolution of eco- compensation policy within the PRC’s environmental regulatory framework, summarizes important national and international developments, provides policy recommendations, and suggests further action. The paper concludes that the PRC government would benefit from greater understanding of other countries’ experience with PES programs and other market- based environmental policy instruments as it continues to work on an eco-compensation policy framework, which would enable private sector participation.
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2010
Biodiversity for Development: South Africa’s Landscape Approach to Conserving Biodiversity and Promoting Ecosystem Resilience
Abstract:This Primer showcases tools that have been developed in South Africa as part of such a landscape approach. It describes how these tools have been developed and used by government and civil society role-players in the period since South Africa’s first democratic elections with universal franchise in 1994, to manage, conserve and use biodiversity sustainably in support of socio-economic development. The Primer explains, with the use of selected case studies, how adoption of the landscape approach can: 1) enable implementation of the ecosystem approach to biodiversity conservation, 2) facilitate working in co-operative partnerships to address the interconnected issues faced by biodiversity and society in an integrated way, and 3) promote the resilience of ecosystems and society to climate change.
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2010
Building Resilience to Climate Change: Ecosystem-based Adaptation and Lessons from the Field
Abstract:This book is one of the main contributions of the Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM) of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to the international discussions on how we should address climate change impacts on natural and human systems, including ecosystems and the services they provide to society and communities. Eleven case studies were selected by a team of editors, covering different ecosystems and regions around the world. The criteria for selection included the availability of an impact assessment of climate change on local communities, or biodiversity at ecosystem level, a clear analysis of the climate change vulnerability of ecosystems and human communities, a proposal for adaptation measures or set of actions being implemented – all based on the concept of ecosystem management – and, ultimately, an analysis of implementation results with future prospects.
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2010
Ecosystem Services from New and Restored Forests: Tool Development
Abstract:This document, and the related Multiple Benefits Series 6 on Methods for assessing and monitoring change in the ecosystem-derived benefits of afforestation, reforestation and forest restoration have been produced to support Viet Nam in its goals of attaining multiple benefits from forest. This document provides a basis for estimating the probable impacts of different forest cover creation approaches on the ecosystem-derived benefits of biodiversity, water provision, soil conservation and non-timber forest products. The companion paper provides guidance on designing a monitoring system and selecting to provide direct evidence of impacts.
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2010
Gender and Desertification: Expanding Roles for Women to Restore Dryland Areas
Abstract:This review examines the impact of desertification on women, their role in the management of natural resources and drylands, and the constraints they face. It presents the experiences of several IFAD supported programmes and projects in addressing women as natural resource users and managers in dryland areas, and highlights some of the approaches used to reach women more effectively. It also presents lessons learned from IFAD programmes and projects, and recommendations for expanding women’s roles in order to restore dryland areas.
Resource Type:White PaperPublication Date: 2010
Community Participation in Restoring Australian Forest Landscapes
Abstract:Australian communities actively participate in protecting and restoring forests on both public and private land. This paper examines the national, regional and local work of communities engaged in restoring Australian forest landscapes.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Connectivity Conservation: International Experience in Planning, Establishment and Management of Biodiversity Corridors
Abstract:This background paper surveys international experience in the development and use of mechanisms to establish and manage connectivity conservation. Specifically it seeks to provide an understanding of the range of mechanisms including laws, regulations, and other regulatory instruments and agreements which have been used in other countries to support connectivity conservation. The information in this background paper will enable practitioners in Viet Nam to understand what other countries have learned from experience with connectivity conservation and to adapt approaches to the national context. This review draws upon examples and case studies from the literature and from the knowledge of experts in IUCN’s technical networks.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Dead Planet, Living Planet: Biodiversity and Ecosystem Restoration for Sustainable Developmen
Abstract:This report is a contribution to the UN’s International Year of Biodiversity and is a complement to the UNEP-hosted Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) which is bringing visibility to the wealth of the world’s natural capital. It documents over 30 successful case studies referencing thousands of restoration projects ranging from deserts and rainforests to rivers and coasts. The report confirms that restoration is not only possible but can prove highly profitable in terms of public savings; returns and the broad objectives of overcoming poverty and achieving sustainability. It also provides important recommendations on how to avoid pitfalls and how to minimize risks to ensure successful restoration.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Embracing Complexity: Meeting the Challenges of International Forest Governance – A Global Assessment Report
Abstract:The report and its accompanying policy brief will provide an overview of the complex and diverse elements that currently make up the global forest governance arrangements; will identify and analyse the core components of these arrangements; and propose options for dealing with complexity and improving the effective implementation of forest governance at global, regional, national and sub-national levels.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Forest Restoration and Armed Conflicts: Challenges and Policy Options for India
Abstract:Forest restoration need not be an unmixed blessing in practice. Due to both foreseen and unforeseen factors restored forests can turn into hot-beds of armed conflict thus defeating the very purpose for which they were raised. Amongst many developing countries with such bad experience is India which is facing bitter conflicts in its forested areas. The focus of the paper is to understand the impacts of the conflict on forest restoration practices and forest management and to suggest ideas towards bettering participatory forest management. Strengthening of socio-economic position and livelihoods of local communities and their empowerment is a much larger issue and should be a pre-requisite for forest restoration strategies. Neglect of local communities and their livelihoods can only endanger restored forest areas and add to their vulnerability and hence make such areas vulnerable to divisive forces. Timely interventions, continuous assessments, reflection, stock-taking and monitoring are also crucial for reforested areas.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Forests and Society – Responding to Global Drivers of Change
Abstract:The essential idea for this book originated from an acknowledgement of the changing social and natural circumstances, and the related drivers of change affecting forests, forestry, human society, and the environment, globally and locally. We are convinced that forests and forest- related matters can no longer be addressed in isolation from the surrounding society and natural environment; instead, these need to be seen as an integral part of interrelated social and natural systems.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Living Shoreline Design Guidelines for Shore Protection in Virginia’s Estuarine Environments
Abstract:These guidelines are meant to address the need to educate consultants, contractors, and other professionals in the use of living shoreline strategies. It provides the necessary information to determine where they are appropriate and what is involved in their design and construction. The guidelines focus on the use of created marsh fringes but also touch on the use of beaches for shore protection. The guidelines were created for the Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay estuarine system but may be applicable to other similar estuarine environments. These references and tools are for guidance only and should not replace professional judgments made at specific sites by qualified individuals.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Mining and Biodiversity: A Collection of Case Studies – 2010
Abstract:ICMM’s 2010 edition of case studies is a snapshot of how field experience and good practices have developed since ICMM first started working on biodiversity: from our engagement in a Dialogue with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2004 and a publication of case studies to the 2006 release of Good Practice Guidance for Mining and Biodiversity. The 2010 case studies indicate that growing attention to biodiversity by ICMM members – and by the industry as a whole – is accompanied by the appearance of increasingly structured approaches to managing company impacts.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Monitoring Revegetation Projects in Rainforest Landscapes: Toolkit Version 3
Abstract:This toolkit has been written to assist community groups and restoration practitioners record details of their revegetation projects, assess their condition and monitor their outcomes for biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Additionally, the methods presented here can also be applied to other situations where there is a need to monitor and evaluate change in forest ecosystems, including assessment of the extent of degradation or recovery within remnant forest.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Natural Solutions: Protected Areas Helping People Cope with Climate Change
Abstract:Protected areas are an essential part of the global response to climate change. They are helping address the cause of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They are helping society cope with climate change impacts by maintaining essential services upon which people depend. Without them, the challenges would be even greater, and their strengthening will yield one of the most powerful natural solutions to the climate crisis.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Oil Spills in Mangroves: Planning and Response Considerations
Abstract:This is not intended to be a specific guide for choosing cleanup methods, as many comprehensive versions of these exist already. Rather, we summarize current research on mangroves from the perspective of those who may need to make decisions about response in mangroves and present the information in an accessible format for people with some science or response background. Experienced responders unfamiliar with mangroves may want background on mangrove ecology, while biologists may want an overview of oil toxicity and mangroves and response and cleanup applied to mangrove ecosystems.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Payments for Ecosystem Services
Abstract:Because ecosystem services are necessary for human survival, the GEF has pioneered the funding of mechanisms that reward good stewardship of natural resources, by promoting the concept and application of Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes. For the GEF, the concept of PES includes a variety of arrangements through which the beneficiaries of ecosystem services pay those providing the services. This publication summarizes the investments of GEF on PES schemes from a variety of institutional, thematic and geographic perspectives. The publication also highlights some of the trends and opportunities for the establishment of PES schemes to generate global environmental benefits.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Peruvian Peatlands (Bofedales): From Andean Traditional Management to Modern Environmental Impacts
Abstract:In the Andes of South America, bofedales (or high Andean peatlands) are fundamental to the traditional livelihoods of Andean pastoralists, in addition to providing numerous ecosystem services. In this document, we discuss the biology and ecological role of bofedales on a regional basis, including the intersection of water and soils that permit the formation of these unique vegetation communities, which support biodiversity, help to regulate hydrological resources, provide highly palatable and nutritious forage, and act as a carbon sink.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Principles and Practice of Ecosystem-Based Management: A Guide for Conservation Practitioners in the Tropical Western Pacific
Abstract:This guide seeks to inform and influence conservation practice in the tropical Western Pacific and to share lessons from the region with conservation practitioners around the world, particularly in developing nations where EBM approaches used in industrialised countries may not be feasible or appropriate. EBM can be applied at a range of scales and context at any stage in the planning process for site-based projects to national policies and programmes.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Rainforest Restoration: Approaches, Costs and Biodiversity Outcomes
Abstract:In this fact sheet, we discuss the following issues: 1) What approaches have been used to achieve rainforest restoration? 2) What are the costs of these approaches? 3) What are the outcomes for biodiversity? and 4) How might ‘biodiversity-friendly’ rainforest plantings be designed and maintained?
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Ramsar Convention: An Integrated Framework for Wetland Inventory, Assessment, and Monitoring
Abstract:The integrated framework provided here focuses on the purposes of and interrelationships among the different aspects and tools for wetland inventory, assessment and monitoring and provides summary information on each aspect of the relevant guidance adopted by the Convention. The integrated framework provides a rationale for applying the mechanisms of the Convention for inventory, assessment and monitoring in order to increase public and political awareness and understanding of the critical values and functions of wetlands in supporting sustainable development and human well-being; provides general guidance for further steps to be taken to improve inventory, assessment and monitoring processes; and recognizes some key topics requiring further guidance and elaboration under the Convention to support full implementation of the framework.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Seabed Restoration Following Marine Aggregate Dredging: Do the Benefits Justify the Costs?
Abstract:Given that it may be possible to undertake restoration there is a need to consider whether it is appropriate to do so. The purpose of this study is to try to answer this question through examination of a case study site (Area 222) in the Thames estuary, where impacts of dredging are shown to persist. Three issues are central to decisions about whether it is sensible to attempt seabed restoration following marine aggregate dredging. They include: i) necessity (e.g. a clear scientific rationale for intervention and/or a policy/legislative requirement), ii) technical feasibility (i.e. whether it is possible to restore the impacts), and iii) whether is it affordable (i.e. cost effective).
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Socio-Economic and Ecological Benefits of Mangrove Plantation: A Study of Community Based Mangrove Restoration Activities in Gujarat
Abstract:This report deals with the assessment of social and ecological benefits accrued to the community after the implementation of the project. The study covered four different districts of Gujarat which includes Kachchh, Surat, Bharuch and Khambhat. The study is an attempt to prepare an interdisciplinary document by assessing the growth rate of planted mangroves under the REMAG project as well as benefits gained by the community in direct and indirect manner.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
The Restoration Indicator Toolkit: Indicators for Monitoring the Ecological Success of Stream Restoration
Abstract:The Toolkit has been developed primarily for the needs of regional councils with access to laboratories and technical equipment, but it should also be useful for community groups and resource users that are undertaking stream restoration without specialist equipment. It is based around the concept of identifying the important goals of the restoration and choosing appropriate indicators to measure the success of those goals. Some of the indicators require specialist equipment or technical training. However, there are several indicators for each type of goal, and when selecting from the Toolkit, a community group may simply avoid specialist indicators and choose others that match their goals and can be measured more easily. Alternatively, it may be possible for a community group to work with the regional council or research scientists in monitoring a restoration site.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
The Role of Forest Biodiversity in the Sustainable Use of Ecosystem Goods and Services in Agro-forestry, Fisheries, and Forestry
Abstract:This symposium has been organized for providing further information to the 10th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD/COP10) which will be held in Nagoya, Japan in October, 2010. One of the objectives of CBD is to harmonize the conservation of bio-diversity with the sustainable use of the components of biodiversity. Recently, it has been recognized that conserving forest ecosystem leads to serve various goods and services to forests and their surrounding environments. In the symposium, we have focused on forest biodiversity and its importance for agriculture, forestry and fishery so that we can increase our understanding on values of forest biodiversity as ecosystem services which are vital to our society.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Urban Forests and Open Green Spaces: Lessons for Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Abstract:Here, we review the present status of urban forestry across the world, and draw lessons that can be applied for the governance of urban green spaces during the development of Jaipur as a world-class city in Rajasthan. We find wide variation both in coverage as well as per capita availability of green spaces. There are, however, some discernible trends emerging from cities renowned for their urban green spaces: approximately 20 to 30% coverage of the total geographical area, and 15 to 25 m2 urban green spaces per capita. World Health Organization suggests ensuring at least a minimum availability of 9 m2 green open space per city dweller. Finally, we provide strategies and lessons for connecting science to decisionmaking aimed at creating multifunctional landscapes to enhance urban resilience and human well-being.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
What Makes Joint Forest Management Successful? Science-Based Policy Lessons on Sustainable Governance of Forests in India
Abstract:This review presents fresh interpretation of available research and provides justification for instituting local monitoring and enforcement systems in the field for sustainable governance of India’s forests. The review also aims to identify lessons for consolidation of joint forest management as a tool for sustaining the forests and improving livelihoods of people.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2010
Dryland Opportunities: A New Paradigm for People, Ecosystems and Development
Abstract:This Challenge Paper builds on the understanding that has emerged over the past decade about climate dynamics in drylands and the role of uncertainty, risk and resilience. It situates this debate in the context of rapid global change – of climate, economy and geopolitics. The Challenge Paper emphasises adaptive potentials, the value of dryland ecosystem services and the investment and marketing opportunities they offer, and the possibilities of strengthening the institutional environment for managing risk and rewarding resilience. It aims to apply the new scientific insights on complex dryland systems to practical options for development. A new dryland paradigm is built on the resources and capacities of dryland peoples, on new and emergent economic opportunities, on inward investment, and on the best support that dryland science can offer. The authors recommend five building blocks: strengthening the knowledge base; valuing and sustaining dryland ecosystem services; promoting public and private investment in drylands; improving access to profitable markets; and prioritising rights, reform, risk and resilience.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2009