©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.
Ecological and Engineering Guidelines for Wetlands Restoration in Relation to the Development, Operation and Maintenance of Navigation Infrastructures
Abstract:This report outlines the ecological engineering aspects of restoring wetlands functions within the ecosystem, including: evaluation, goals, communication, design, environment, social use, public use, economy, regulations, engineering, implementation, monitoring, and landscape consideration. Case studies are presented in terms of wetland type, problem identification, solutions and measures, and lessons learned. Some of the case studies deal specifically with modeling related to wetland restoration, with indications of models used and their advantages/disadvantages.
Resource Type:BookPublication Date: 2003
Ecological Restoration of Southwestern Ponderosa Pine Forests
Abstract:The book examines: 1) the overall context for restoration—ecological, social, economic, political, and philosophical, 2) how ecosystem processes such as fire, hydrology, and nutrient cycling are affected by restoration activities, 3) treatment effects on specific ecosystem components such as trees, understory plants, animals, and rare or invasive species, and 4) the details of implementing restoration projects, including smoke management, the protection of cultural resources, and monitoring. Each section is introduced with a case study that demonstrates some of the promise and pitfalls of restoration projects.
Resource Type:BookPublication Date: 2003
Restauracio_n de Ecosistemas Mediterra_neos
Abstract:El libro Restauración de Ecosistemas Mediterráneos recoge las ponencias que se presentaron en el Simposio de la Asociación Española de Ecología Terrestre Restauración de Ecosistemas Mediterráneos. Posibilidades y limitaciones, celebrado en Alcalá de Henares del 20 al 21 de Septiembre de 2001, además de algunas comunicaciones seleccionadas. El principal objetivo de esta publicación es poner a disposición de los estudiantes universitarios, de licenciatura y escuelas técnicas, pre y postdoctorales, así como de técnicos que desarrollen su profesión en empresas y administraciones, un volumen en castellano que proporcione una visión amplia, actualizada e integrada sobre la Restauración ecológica en nuestros ambientes mediterráneos. El texto aparece completado por un CD-ROM que incluye un catálogo fotográfico de ejemplos de restauración y de gran interés didáctico.
Resource Type:BookPublication Date: 2003
The Rehabilitation of the Delta of the Senegal River in Mauritania
Abstract:This book, which tells the story of an ecosystem approach to the rehabilitation of the lower delta of the Senegal River in Mauritania, in and around Diawling National Park, is a companion volume to that guide. Its main objective is to provide practitioners with a “feel” for what the approach can entail in the real-life setting of a remote corner of the Sahel, where people’s livelihoods are inextricably tied to the productivity of their delta. This productivity is in turn influenced by the mixing of fresh and saline waters during the floods, and by the surface area flooded
Resource Type:BookPublication Date: 2003
Adaptive Management and Ecological Restoration
Abstract:Most people involved in resource management have heard of adaptive management (AM), and many claim to practice it, but few seem to really understand it. Many have a general notion that it involves adapting policies and procedures based on results, but it is a misperception that AM simply comprises “adapting as you go” based on trial and error. In this chapter we intend to shed some light on this tremendously powerful tool and to illustrate its enormous benefits for ecosystem restoration.
Resource Type:BookPublication Date: 2003
Bridging engineering, ecological, and geomorphic science to enhance riverine restoration: Local and national efforts
Abstract: We outline a new initiative – the National Riverine Restoration
Science Synthesis (NRRSS) – that involves a large interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers working in partnership with the river conservation organization, American Rivers. The goal of the project is to facilitate the linkage between the practice of ecological
restoration and the science of restoration ecology, as well as establish standards
for data gathering and analysis to assess restoration methods and success in a
scientifically rigorous manner.
Publication Date: 2003
A Checklist for Wildlands Network Designs
Abstract:The checklist consists of eight general standards, each of which includes several specific criteria that relate to the qualifications of staff, choice of biodiversity surrogates and goals, methodological comprehensiveness and rigor, replicability, analytic rigor, peer review, and overall quality of scholarship. Application of the checklist is meant to be flexible and to encourage creativity and innovation. Nevertheless, every plan must be scientifically defensible and must make the best use of available data, staff, and resources. Moreover, some degree of consistency is required to link individual plans together into a continental-scale network. The checklist may provide a template that other conservation organizations, agencies, scientists, and activists can adapt to their programs.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003
A Citizen’s Call for Ecological Forest Restoration: Forest Restoration Principles and Criteria
Abstract:The Citizens’ Call for Ecological Forest Restoration is proposed as a national policy framework to guide sound ecological restoration policy and projects. Through these restoration principles, we seek to articulate a collective vision of ecologically appropriate, scientifically supported forest restoration. Scientifically credible principles and criteria provide a yardstick with which to evaluate proposed forest restoration policies and projects that can be used both on the ground and in policy debates.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003
Adaptive Co-Management: Lessons from Coastal Cambodia
Abstract:This paper focuses on how community-based management is unfolding in coastal Cambodia through the facilitation of a donor-funded, Cambodian-led government research team. Coastal communities in Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary illustrate the strong potential for community- government partnerships. Several lessons are highlighted: community-based management requires support from the provincial and national level; facilitation between stakeholders is important; and experimentation is an essential component of management. Creative models of community-based management, emerging despite the absence of a legal framework, may be best described as systems of adaptive co-management combining the elements of trial and error, learning-by-doing, and the sharing of management responsibility.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003
Alternatives to Conventional Management: Lessons from Small-Scale Fisheries
Abstract:Based on long-term research on community-based resource management, and using small- scale fisheries as an example, alternatives to conventional management may be characterized by: a shift in philosophy to embrace uncertainty and complexity; an appreciation of fisheries as social-ecological systems and more broadly as complex adaptive systems; an expansion of scope of management information to include fishers. knowledge; formulation of management objectives that incorporate livelihood issues; and development of participatory management with community-based institutions and cross-scale governance. Such alternative management is adaptive as well as participatory in nature, as it engages the knowledge of resource users, their adaptive learning, and their institutions for self-governance.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003
Applying Forest Restoration Principles to Coral Reef Rehabilitation
Abstract:We compare here the rationale of forest restoration to coral reef ecosystem restoration by evaluating major key criteria. As in silviculture programs, a sustainable mariculture operation that focuses on the prime structural component of the reef (‘gardening’ with corals) may promote the persistence of threatened coral populations, as well as that of other reef taxa, thus maintaining genetic diversity. In chronically degrading reef sites this may facilitate a halt in biodiversity depletion.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003
Drylands, People, and Ecosystem Goods and Services: A Web-Based Geospatial Analysis
Abstract:This web-based analysis takes advantage of the power of geospatial technologies to examine the world’s drylands. We consider drylands from the perspective of human livelihoods, examining how these livelihoods are integrated with dryland ecosystem goods and services. Our presentation is map-rich using combinations of remotely-sensed data and computer-based data management systems (GIS). Where global data are not available, we use regional and national studies. We focus on a selected set of dryland goods and services: forage and livestock; food production; biodiversity conservation; freshwater; carbon storage; energy production; and tourism and recreation. The final two sections examine drylands and trade and drylands and the impacts of human activities.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Forest Landscape Restoration: The Role of Forest Restoration in Achieving Multifunctional Landscapes
Abstract:In many deforested, degraded and fragmented forest habitats investments in restoration and rehabilitation can yield high conservation benefits. Restoration in densely settled tropical areas can have more impact on biodiversity than further extension of “paper parks” in remote, pristine forests and can also deliver important forest goods and services to a wider range of stakeholders. Retention of even small fragments of natural vegetation is justified by their great potential value in providing the building blocks for future restoration programmes. However, care needs to be taken in planning and executing such programmes. Spatial modelling tools can be used to formulate scenarios for optimal multifunctional landscapes and indicate where restoration investments will have maximum pay-off. The use of these tools needs to be supported by a high degree of participation from, and negotiation among, the full range of stakeholders, to identify the most important goods and services that need to be delivered by a particular landscape. Spatial analysis tools can also be used to provide a framework for negotiation. The objectives of all stakeholders, including conservation organizations, should be clearly articulated in ways that are amenable to effective monitoring and evaluation.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Forest Rehabilitation through Natural Regeneration in Tigray, Ethiopia: From Fragments to Forests
Abstract:The objective of the project is to strengthen forest research capacity in Tigray by initiating fundamental forest regeneration experiments, by training Mekelle University staff and by providing better research facilities in order to contribute to the development of sustainable management plans for Ethiopia’s forest resources, in particular in Tigray.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
From seed to success: A guide for community conservation projects
Abstract:This Guide is designed for people involved in community conservation projects. It provides advice about establishing, maintaining, improving and evaluating community conservation projects, particularly those involving partnerships.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
From seed to success: Toolkit for community conservation projects
Abstract:This Tool Kit provides a range of useful information for people involved with community conservation projects. This resource is designed to support community conservation groups and projects by pulling together some of the information that an assist you in working more effectively towards your goals.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Joint Mangrove Management in Tamil Nadu
Abstract:The aim of this project was to build the capacities of the local communities, government agencies and grass-root institutions such as Panchayats, to restore, conserve and utilise the mangrove wetlands in a sustainable manner through participatory analysis and action. The project’s integrated approach to mangrove restoration, conservation and management is visible in a wide range of activities-technical, socio-economic and administrative. The approach encompasses many implementing agencies, and includes all the stakeholders: the mangrove user communities, MSSRF, the FD of different states, other government departments, rural agencies such as Panchayats, local NGOs, schools and private companies.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Key Issues in Fire Regime Research for Fuels Management and Ecological Restoration
Abstract:The basic premise behind many projects aimed at wildfire hazard reduction and ecological restoration in forests of the western United States is the idea that unnatural fuel buildup has resulted from suppression of formerly frequent fires. This premise and its implications need to be critically evaluated by conducting area-specific research in the forest ecosystems targeted for fuels or ecological restoration projects. Fire regime researchers need to acknowledge the limitations of fire history methodology and avoid over-reliance on summary fire statistics such as mean fire interval and rotation period. While fire regime research is vitally important for informing decision making in the areas of wildfire hazard mitigation and ecological restoration, there is much need for improving the way researchers communicate their results to managers and the way managers use this information.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Linkages in the Landscape: The Role of Corridors and Connectivity in Wildlife Conservation
Abstract:The loss and fragmentation of natural habitats is one of the major issues in wildlife management and conservation. Habitat “corridors” are sometimes proposed as an important element within a conservation strategy. Examples are given of corridors both as pathways and as habitats in their own right. This document includes detailed reviews of principles relevant to the design and management of corridors, their place in regional approaches to conservation planning, and recommendations for research and management.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Rehabilitation of Degraded Drylands and Biosphere Reserves
Abstract:The theme of the workshop was the establishment of capacity for the rehabilitation of degraded drylands, using site-specific examples of biosphere reserves to assess potential natural vegetation and viable wildlife populations in drylands. The project also seeks to apply scientific methods for improved management of marginal drylands. Combating desertification by rehabilitating degraded lands can be done successfully, using existing, often traditional techniques. It is for this reason that workshops such as these are paramount to providing and sharing practical and inexpensive solutions to common problem.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Revegetation Techniques: A Guide for Establishing Native Vegetation in Victoria
Abstract:Revegetation Techniques is a ‘how to’ guide for establishing native plants from seed or seedlings. The information is based on what has worked at a practical level for landholders, community groups, land management agencies and project managers. It covers the steps involved in a revegetation program, from planning and preparation to monitoring and then outlines the different techniques available to direct seed or plant seedlings. Natural regeneration, mechanical and hand methods of revegetation are described and a comprehensive resource section is provided.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Sand Barrens Habitat Management: A Toolbox for Managers
Abstract:This document presents a management toolbox for the application of disturbances to restore and manage rare sand barrens habitats. Although rare sand barrens communities are the focus of this report, the restoration and maintenance of sand barrens habitats may be similar to those found in other rare barrens types or managed habitats in general (e.g. old field maintenance). Described in this toolbox are the practical issues involving the use of prescribed fire (Section 4), prescribed grazing (Section 5), mowing (Section 6), clearing (Section 7), and herbicides (Section 8) to restore and maintain various habitats. In Section 9, using Martha’s Vineyard as a case study, these methods are tied together, looking at ways to use the tools holistically to achieve habitat management objectives.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Science-Based Restoration Monitoring of Coastal Habitats
Abstract:This first volume contains a background on restoration and monitoring, stages of a restoration and monitoring plans, how to create a monitoring plan, and important information that should be considered when monitoring specific habitats. The second volume, to be published in 2004, provides detailed information on the habitats, an inventory of coastal restoration monitoring programs, a review of monitoring techniques manuals and quality control/quality assurance documents, an overview of governmental acts affiliated with monitoring, a cost analysis of monitoring expenses, a glossary of terms, and a discussion of socioeconomic issues affiliated with coastal habitat restoration.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Stream restoration – A natural channel design handbook
Abstract:This document promotes a natural channel design approach to stream restoration. It is intended primarily as a reference for
natural resource professionals who plan, design, review and implement stream-restoration projects.
Publication Date: 2003
The Ecosystem Approach in Practice: Developing Sustainable Forestry in Central Labrador, Canada
Abstract:This paper examines one recent example of large-scale ecosystem-based planning in central Labrador, Canada. Under an innovative agreement, the Innu Nation and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador concluded an ecosystem-based forest management plan for 7.1 million ha in 2002. The central features of this plan are ecological and cultural protected area networks that were developed over a range of spatial scales.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
The Restoration of Wooded Landscapes
Abstract:This publication aims to: 1) Synthesize current knowledge relating to the ecology of wooded landscapes and design of new woodland areas, 2) Illustrate, through case studies, how ecological knowledge has been applied to the design and management of native woodland restoration schemes, the identification of opportunities and constraints, and the evaluation of ecological and economic costs and benefits. The publication is aimed at woodland managers, planners and policymakers concerned with the restoration of native woodland at the landscape scale. A number of the chapters reviewing the main themes in the field of landscape ecology will be of interest to applied ecologists and researchers.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
The Role of Planted Forests in Forest Landscape Restoration
Abstract:Although the conventional response of establishing planted forests as a counterweight to deforestation is seldom capable of restoring the multiple values that flow from natural forests or of adequately addressing all the needs of key interest groups, this paper argues that there is still a critical role for planted forests in restoring forest functionality at a landscape level. However in order to achieve this potential, and to move beyond the controversy that currently surrounds plantation forestry, it will be necessary for governments, the private sector and civil society to move beyond the “absolutist” rhetoric of entrenched positions.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Water for River Restoration: Potential for Collaboration between Agricultural and Environmental Water Users in the Rio Grande Project Area
Abstract:This report was commissioned by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to explore the potential for working with agricultural water users to direct some part of the water supply of the Rio Grande in the Chihuahuan Desert to restoration of the river. While there is a long and growing history of disputes among competing water users in the Rio Grande Basin, and agricultural and environmental groups have in particular butted heads, the two groups share many common interests in future management of the river.
Resource Type:Technical DocumentPublication Date: 2003
Bases Ecolo_gicas para la Restauracio_n de los Espartales Semia_ridos Degradados
Abstract:En este estudio se analiza la interaccio_n entre S. tenacissima y distintas especies len_osas mediterra_neas introducidas mediante plantacio_n y siembra, con el fin de evaluar el potencial de la facilitacio_n como herramienta para la restauracio_n ecolo_gica de los espartales. Esta interaccio_n es la suma de efectos positivos (mejora en las condiciones microclima_ticas y eda_ficas y captacio_n de agua de escorrenti_a) y negativos (competencia subterra_nea por el agua), siendo la mejora del microclima en los alrededores de S. tenacissima el principal mecanismo responsable de la facilitacio_n observada en las especies introducidas. Los efectos positivos aumentan conforme lo hacen las condiciones clima_ticas adversas en un gradiente espacio-temporal de estre_s hi_drico. Estos resultados indican que la facilitacio_n puede contribuir a optimizar la restauracio_n de los espartales degradados.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003
Biocomplexity and restoration of biodiversity in temperate coniferous forest: Inducing spatial heterogeneity with variable-density thinning
Abstract:In northwestern USA, comparisons of natural and managed coniferous forests support the idea that both single-species conservation and conventional forestry are unlikely to be successful because biocomplexity is more important than individual habitat elements in maintaining the diversity of forest ecosystems and their capacity to produce useful goods and services. Experiments in inducing heterogeneity into forest canopies support the importance of biocomplexity to various biotic communities including soil organisms, vascular plants, fungi, birds, small mammals and vertebrate predators. Holistic management, however, requires a suite of techniques to direct developmental processes to useful trajectories.
Resource Type:Peer-reviewed ArticlePublication Date: 2003