Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
irrigation systems, and fencing. The most critical time for a project is immediately following con-
struction or installation, commonly continuing for one to three years depending on the ecosystem
and site conditions. Many project sites also require stewardship (long-term care) to ensure that the
restoration is on a trajectory toward the desired future condition. Project managers need to budget
for the staffing and resources required for aftercare as well as obtain the required funds.
13.
Develop, fund, and implement a monitoring program to evaluate whether, and when,
you have achieved your project objectives.
All restoration projects need to have some type of monitoring and evaluation program with ad-
equate funding relative to the importance and complexity of the project. You need not monitor
everything on your project site; rather, monitor those elements that will help you determine if
the site is maturing in a way that will meet your performance standards. These standards serve as
incremental measures of achieving your project objectives, which were derived from your project
goals. Knowing to what degree you have met the objectives for your project will inform your stake-
holders of your success or enable you to suggest needs for future remediation.
14.
Use an adaptive management approach to improve each successive stage of your
restoration project and refine the planning for future similar projects.
Using an adaptive management process can improve your understanding of how to plan, design,
and execute successful ecological restoration projects. During installation, things may not go as
planned. Changes may be needed to correct poorly performing elements of your project. Do not
wait until your project is completed to implement needed changes when they have been identi-
fied during the installation process. Use your monitoring data to determine whether any remedial
actions need to be taken during the aftercare phase of your project. At the end of each project,
your project team can perform an evaluation of what worked and what might be done differently
on future projects. Adaptive management is a good way to grow restoration expertise and to im-
prove consumer confidence in the profession.
15.
Retain your creative spirit and remain open to trying new and innovative approaches for
achieving successful restoration projects.
Creativity and innovation are important attributes to have as you approach your project. No two
projects are alike, which is why the guidance in this topic is presented as a framework that still
requires thought during implementation. Most likely, you will be challenged with a lot of “first
time” experiences. With the proper use of the tools included in this topic, you will be prepared to
solve these challenges.
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