Upper Susquehanna River Watershed-Cooperstown Area Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study and Integrated Environmental Assessment: Post-Restoration Water Quality and Wildlife Analysis of the FABADS Sites (2003-2004)

The Field Assessed Benefit and Design Strategy (FABADS) was introduced by the U.S. Army Cops of Engineers as part of the Upper Susquehanna River WatershedCooperstown Area Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study and Integrated Environmental Assessment. Authorized by the U.S. Congress, the pilot program is “to conduct a study and develop a strategy for using wetland restoration, soil and water conservation practices, and nonstructural measures to reduce flood damage, improve water quality, and create wildlife habitat...” The strategy implemented includes site identification, quantification of the water quality and wildlife benefits achievable through wetland restoration, and application of conclusions drawn from the data to future restoration designs. The FABADS concept takes the necessary and practical steps to bridge the gaps between theory, application, environmental impact and adaptive management.