Introduction to Stream Restoration - Hydro-Environmental Analysis: Freshwater Environments - page 251

For larger systems, low data may often be obtained from USGS gaging stations. However, gaging
stations may not be at the required location, or they may not be available. Flows may be estimated
from point velocity measurements along a stream cross section, using acoustic Doppler current
meters, or other techniques (see Chapter 4). Monitoring design and issues are discussed by FISRWG
(1998), NRCS (2007a), and Saldi-Caromile et al. (2004).
8.4.20 n atIVe S pecIeS p rotectIon /r eIntroductIon
As a general rule for all practices, native plant species are chosen or favored over introduced spe-
cies (NRCS 2007a). Projects typically include a revegetation plan compatible with native plants,
soil, and site conditions or plans for the protection of existing vegetation. In addition to designs
that protect existing native vegetation, restoration should be designed to result in a contiguous and
connected stream corridor (FISRWG 1998). A variety of guides are available from local agencies
and organizations on native plant species, and Dorner (2002) summarized some of the steps and
considerations in using native plants in restoration projects. As indicated by Dorner (2002), in order
to be successful, careful thought and planning should be used in the selection of plant species (e.g.,
evaluating the site characteristics and choosing the appropriate species), the installation of those
species (selecting seeds of plants, preparing the site, etc.), and the maintenance of those species until
they are established (watering, erosion control, pest management, monitoring, etc.).
8.4.21 p ooLS c reated
The creation of instream pool areas in rivers and streams is a common restoration practice. For
example, channel rock vanes and LWD are used to create scour pools and control structures are
used to create backwater pools for instream habitats. An additional area where pool creation is com-
monly used is in the restoration or creation of vernal pools (Figure 8.32). Vernal pools are season-
ally looded wetlands and natural vernal pools have substantially declined as a result of urban and
agricultural expansion.
8.4.22 r eInStatInG /M aIntaInInG H ydrauLIc c onnectIonS
The maintenance or reinstatement of hydraulic connections refers to the realignment of stream
channels so that ecological functions are maintained in channel bendways and other off-channel
Ve rnal pool 3
postconstruction
March 2003
FIGURE 8.32 Vernal pool enhancement at Battelle-Darby Creek Metro Park, Columbus and Franklin County
Metro Park, Franklin County, OH. (From Ohio Vernal Pool Partnership, Available at http:\\www.OVPP.org.)