Site Analysis - Project Planning and Management for Ecological Restoration - page 65

our reaction is usually tilted toward the negative, and we think of nonpoint source pollutants (road oils,
salts, nitrogen, and phosphates), peak flows, erosion, and a host of other problems. And yet, we have
seen streambeds, once considered intermittent, flowing not just after peak storm events but year-round
and supporting riparian habitats that function as host to many wildlife species. Therefore, be sure to
take the time to reflect on all that you uncover during your site visits. Discuss your impressions with
other team members; and be sure to consider your data collection in light of the project goals.
Threats
A threat is an indication of something impending (Merriam-Webster 2003).
Site analysis should identify where an undesirable trend or challenge may lead to the further
degradation of the site. Threats should be classified according to their seriousness and probability of
occurring. A risk analysis (chapter 2) should be conducted anytime the probability of occurrence is
uncertain and the potential for impact to the project site appears high. The site assessment should
begin with identification of the critical areas of concern that pose a direct and real threat to the on-
going natural processes on-site. Once identified, the critical areas of concern can be traced back to
their causes, and actions must be taken to remedy the problem(s). Depending on the severity of the
problem, these critical items are most commonly treated early in the implementation of the project.
Constraints
A constraint is the state of being checked, restricted, or compelled to avoid or perform some action; a
force by imposed stricture, restriction or limitation (Merriam-Webster 2003).
Project constraints are not limited to environmental factors only. They necessarily include eco-
nomic resources (e.g., working capital), human resources (skills, number, and availability), time, stake-
holder requirements or expectations, seasonality, political considerations, climate, natural resources,
and so forth. Constraints such as these require some form of response from the project restoration
team. There may be governmental agency restrictions on the seasons when brush clearing or grading
can take place. Working in or adjacent to occupied habitat during the breeding season for certain
wildlife species commonly requires provisions controlling when and how the work can be performed.
The restoration practitioner should always view the site analysis phase as an attempt to capture
a snapshot in time that characterizes the overall trends of the site's condition.
Reflecting on the Data and Your Observations
You may develop impressions of the site that do not necessarily fit into the framework of the
SWOT-C analysis. These impressions are nonetheless important to consider in your analysis. The
synergy of data and impressions on several factors can permit you to reach a conclusion that
otherwise may not have happened. The ultimate goal is to make use of all information you have
available, whether tangible or not. The restoration of Carrifran Wildwood is an excellent example
of a volunteer-based project that effectively used the SWOT-C process (box 4-3).