Introduction

Riparian restoration is a process that sets the stage to allow natural ecological processes to occur and to continue once the riparian habitat is reestablished. Beschta states that "Riparian restoration [is] the reestablishment of riparian functions and related physical, chemical, and biological linkages between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems; it is the repairing of the diversity and dynamics of indigenous ecosystems degraded by human impacts. Its goal is to ensure that the dynamics of natural ecosystem processes are again operating efficiently so that both ecosystem structure and functions can be recovered and sustained" (Beschta and others 2000). Continuing these processes is "a necessity for maintaining a [eco]system's long-term economic and social values" (Ibid).

Two themes-riparian and restoration-are explored. The guide develops the concept of ecosystems as complex systems that are inherently dependent on each other for existence and emphasizes the value of ecology and ecological integrity. It outlines a different approach to setting boundaries for riparian ecosystems and introduces the structural and functional characteristics as keys to understanding them. The supposition is that by understanding the components that give ecosystems form (structure) and the interactions between these components (function), it may be possible to fix (restore) the damaged parts and make them function properly again.

The guide offers tips for investigating existing site conditions to discover what is working well (functioning properly) and what is not. Using the guide will help guard against disturbing natural functioning conditions, when new construction is being planned. To help achieve the desired results, the guide offers recommendations for setting goals and identifies objectives and a set of design principles. Restoration techniques to return worn out, trampled, and dehydrated areas to vibrant, healthy, productive, ecoparticipants are explained in detail. Photos, charts, graphs, and tables aid in understanding the material presented here, as well as the concepts, planning, and implementation of individual restoration projects. The appendixes list additional sources for information and assistance.

This guide was prepared to assist specialists (soil scientists, biologists, landscape architects, engineers, hydrologists, botanists, and others) who are involved in day-to-day management of recreation areas and who have the responsibility for protecting the natural environment, while planning for public use. It provides a broad overview of restoration concepts as well as in-depth, how-to assistance.

This Nation's diverse riparian ecosystems, from mountains to deserts, flourish with bountiful populations of wildlife and diverse plant communities. See figures 1, 2, and 3. Riparian ecosystems serve as classrooms for lessons in the complex ecology of interrelated and interdependent ecosystems. For example, the most innocent or innocuous acts can impact riparian ecosystems and, ultimately, the water we drink. Disruptive acts include fertilizing farmlands; careless logging and mining; mowing lakeshores, riverbanks, and streambanks; removing shrubs and trees; constructing access roads and trails for recreation; fishing from streambanks; camping at the water's edge; and participating in other recreational activities that can disrupt riparian ecosystems.

Figure 1—Desert riparian.

Figure 2—Midwestern lakeshore riparian.

Figure 3—Grassland riparian.

Careless and irresponsible recreation is as damaging, and has the potential to be more damaging, to plant and animal life as certain types of logging and mining. An array of recreational impacts that often go unnoticed can eventually cause grave consequences in efforts to restore riparian ecosystems.

Riparian ecosystems are the canaries in the coal mine. They give warnings of erosion and pollution problems that threaten forest streams, rivers, lakes, and ocean fronts. When water quality is impacted, the fundamental ecology is deeply disturbed. For example, Manning (1979) notes that "sheet erosion carries away the soil surface preventing accumulation of litter and organic material." This contributes to water pollution. See figures 4 and 5.

Figure 4-The campground straddles the stream. The riparian
vegetation is being destroyed and the soil compacted, thus
destroying the riparian ecosystem and the environment
that drew people in the first place.

Figure 5—Shrubs and herbaceous vegetation along this
stream have been trampled.

Riparian ecosystems are a more valued resource to the general public and to those persons with grazing permits than any other forest environment. They offer unparalleled wildland recreational opportunities. They are important for flood mitigation and water quality control and for regulating the movement of water, sediment, minerals, and woody debris between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. They offer critical habitat and food sources to a diverse population of wildlife, including fish and fowl, plant species, and humans.