Restoration of Wetland and Riparian Systems: The Role of Science, Adaptive Management, History, and Values

Riparian and wetland ecosystems have been extensively altered with increasing human demands for more available land for agriculture, water management, resource extraction and urbanization. More than fifty percent of the original wetlands in the United States were lost by the 1980s and more have been lost or greatly altered since (Gibbs 2000), while more than ninety percent of the riparian areas have been altered or lost (Kentula 1997). Recent realization that these ecosystems provide many beneficial services to both humans and natural processes has elevated the concern for their losses or degradation. Laws such as the Clean Water Act recognize the importance of wetlands and require protective action when wetlands are disturbed. Concern for water quality and wildlife habitat, as well as recreational potential, has encouraged individuals and communities to restore or rehabilitate those wetlands and riparian areas that have not been totally extirpated, and where lost, attempts are being made to recreate these systems. Restoration is not solely a scientific effort. Several concepts have been developed that should be considered when addressing restoration activities (National Research Council 1992). These include the role of science and policy, an understanding of historic perspectives, and adaptive management. To be successful, restoration has to occur within the constraints of the biophysical and sociopolitical worlds. Ignoring the interplay between these two “worlds” will not only create problems for the restoration practitioner, but potentially end in failure. This paper discusses several components critical to restoration success, initially addressing the importance of the scientific process in developing restoration goals, and then showing the importance of adaptive management, understanding historic conditions, and the role of social and political inputs to the effort. All of these components must come into play if there is to be a hope for restoration efforts to be successful.