Review of River Restoration Methodologies

Restoration professionals have a wide range of methods from which to select a preferred or preferred combination of applications to accomplish habitat and river process objectives. Summary information about potential restoration methods is being compiled. The compilation includes: 1) method features, general characteristics, and goals, 2) assessment of performance success, 3) general range of application, 4) general river geomorphic response, 5) general habitat value, 6) modes of failure and countermeasures, 7) advantages and disadvantages, and 8) references to applicable design guidelines. The primary purpose of this methods summary compilation is to have these characteristics in a single document for professionals to identify initial alternatives for evaluation and to compare and contrast methods for a particular set of watershed and river conditions. The methods compilation will identify and assist with screening alternatives to determine which method(s) will receive complete evaluation, analysis and design. These methods can be identified and compared with local river conditions, desired benefits, species characteristics, management objectives, and implement ability. This paper summarizes the overall findings of this methods review.