Διαδικτυακή Πύλη Συνεργασίας Για Τα Δάση

The purpose of this design manual is to provide restoration practitioners with guidelines for implementing a subset of low-tech tools—namely post-assisted log structures (PALS) and beaver dam analogues (BDAs)—for initiating processbased restoration in structurally-starved riverscapes. While the concept of process-based restoration in riverscapes has been advocated for at least two decades, details and specific examples on how to implement it remain sparse. Here, we describe ‘low-tech process-based restoration’ as a practice of using simple, low unit-cost, structural additions (e.g., wood and beaver dams) to riverscapes to mimic functions and initiate specific processes. Hallmarks of this approach include: • An explicit focus on the processes that a low-tech restoration intervention is meant to promote • A conscious effort to use cost-effective, low-tech treatments (e.g., hand-built, natural materials, nonengineered, short-term design life-spans) • ‘Letting the system do the work’, which defers critical decision making to riverscapes and nature’s ecosystem engineers Importantly, the manual conveys underlying principles guiding use of low-tech tools in process-based restoration in systems impaired by insufficient structural complexity. Although intended to be simple, low-tech restoration still requires some basic understanding of watershed context, riverscape behavior and channel evolution, and careful planning. The manual provides interested practitioners with sufficient conceptual and applied information on planning, design, permitting, construction and adaptive management to get started, as well as references to additional information and resources. Detailed design and construction guidance is provided on two effective low-tech tools: 1) beaver dam analogues (BDAs) for mimicking beaver dam activity, and 2) post-assisted log structures (PALS) for mimicking wood accumulation in riverscapes. Throughout the manual, readers are reminded that the structures themselves are not the solution, but rather a means to initiate specific, desirable processes. Ultimately, embracing the design principles will help practitioners better understand the ‘why’ behind structural interventions and allow for more efficient and effective riverscape restoration.

Implementation of the Streamside Management Zone (SMZ) law and rules protects and maintains the functions of a SMZ. The six functions of a SMZ, as identified in the SMZ law (77-5-301[1] MCA), are: 1. Acts as an effective sediment filter to maintain water quality, 2. Provides shade to regulate stream temperature, 3. Supports diverse and productive aquatic and terrestrial riparian habitats, 4. Protects the stream channel and banks, 5. Provides large, woody debris that is eventually recruited into a stream to maintain riffles, pools, and other elements of channel structure, 6. Promotes floodplain stability.

A BMP is a voluntary guideline that defines the best methodology for a particular forest practice (operation) in the woods. In this case, “Best” means minimal to zero negative impacts and even improved condition of the natural resources if the practice is properly planned and applied. Proper timber harvest techniques, combined with the BMPs, result in a healthy forest that supports fish, wildlife, clean water and healthy ecosystem processes. This goal is shared by Montana landowners, the forest industry, recreationists, and all those who recognize the value of sustainable, healthy forests. The “Clean and Healthy Environment” guaranteed by our state’s constitution is vital to the Montana lifestyle. Best Management Practices help Montanans realize and maintain that goal.

The Guide of Good restoration Practices is a compilation of bibliographical research on ecological restoration and Mediterranean habitats, and contains a selection of 15 Good restoration Practices involving native plants that have been identified for different Mediterranean habitats, as well as a description of two pilot restoration actions. It is addressed to all those involved in habitat, ecosystem and landscape restoration activities including policy makers. The Guide attempts to make the use of local plant genetic material a necessary consideration in restoration activities, thus complementing the conservation of plant diversity in the Mediterranean Basin.