Linking the restoration of rivers and riparian zones/wetlands in Europe: Sharing knowledge through case studies

Floodplains in Europe are heavily impacted by human intervention and often disconnected from the main river channel. Restoring lateral hydraulic connectivity between wetlands, fringe habitats and riparian land with the adjacent river channel is extremely important to maintain natural functioning of floodplain wetlands. However, there is no simple solution to restoring and rehabilitating rivers and their floodplains, particularly in terms of long-term sustainability. Floodplains are often the most fertile and productive part of the landscape, in terms of both agricultural production and natural ecosystems. Restoration projects must be able to balance conflicting needs and interests. Flood management is one of the most powerful drivers of developing strategies for floodplain restoration. Appropriate restoration management of floodplains is vital for the conservation of unique bio-diverse systems and for sustainable agricultural productivity. By developing strategies that better incorporate floodplain restoration in the context of the basin scale, it will become more feasible to develop the most effective restoration actions for a specific river type and location. Within this context we must not forget that successful natural resource management is much more than developing good science; it requires working with landowners, meeting deadlines, securing funding, supervising staff, and cooperating with politicians. Furthermore, the benefits of floodplain restoration must be equally demonstrated for multiple purposes including a range of ecosystem services. This paper explores the various interactions associated with floodplain dynamics. Through case studies it explores the various approaches that have been taken across Europe to forward the restoration of these fragile and important ecosystems and embeds these in the context of current European environmental policy and directives.

► We explore wetland/floodplain dynamics and how they are impacted by human activities in Europe.
► It is underline how hydro-morphological dynamics are driving and delivering floodplains restoration for a range of benefit.
► We focus on the value of wetland restoration in the context of balancing conservation, agricultural and social needs.
► It is presented a picture of European policy and its role in context of wetland/floodplain conservation/restoration.
► Participatory processes and tools are presented as key point for an effective sustainable management.