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What is Riverine Ecosystem Restoration
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 Riverine Ecosystem Restoration means actions taken to correct previous alterations that have destroyed, diminished or impaired the character and function of riverine systems. This is the process of converting an unstable, altered or degraded stream channel (and the adjacent riparian area) to its (a) natural condition considering recent and future watershed conditions. 
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Riverine Ecosystem Restoration Efforts
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Stream ecosystem restoration projects are exercises of working with nature, of integrating science and interpolating data, of observing natural processes and making numerous decisions that will ultimately result in successful projects. Stream ecosystem restoration projects rely on multiple disciplines with multiple objectives and an appreciation and knowledge of the natural processes that allow restoration projects to reach a sustainable state of dynamic equilibrium.
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Rehabilitation
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Stabilization
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| Benefits of Restoration |
The obvious benefits of restoration are typically channel stability. The more subtle yet more important benefits are more difficult to quantify . The recovery and improvement of the biology (using biocriteria) correlates directly to an improvement in chemical water quality.
Excepting those areas that Ohio wishes to maintain in a near pristine state for the enjoyment of future generations the challenge of stream habitat protection is to protect the environment while not unnecessarily burdening economic development. These efforts need to maximize long-term economic and ecological considerations over short-term economic gain that sometimes sacrifices environmental quality.
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Probable Results of Restoration Efforts
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Regional detention, reduction in flood peaks and attenuation
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Reduced maintenance, self sustaining systems
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Reduced water treatment (energy input)
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Pollutant assimilation
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Recreation uses
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Economic revitalization (jobs and contracting)
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DITCH to STREAM Handout
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Summary:
The "Ditch to Stream" board was created for the Ohio Streams Conference in 2004. The purpose of the board is to serve as an aid in describing the breadth of projects associated with stream restoration efforts and to allow the reader to determine where in the scope of restoration the projects the5r work lies. This board starts to clarify some of the misconceptions associated with using the terminology: "Stream Restoration".
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| Downloads |
| The "Ditch to Stream Handout" can be viewed and downloaded in the following formats: |
| » JPG file: 11"x17", resolution: 150 dpi, .6 Mb |
| » PDF file: 11"x17", resolution: 120 dpi, 1.6 Mb |
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