Image 1: Coastal dune restoration site on Puerto Rico's north coast. Credit: Vida Marina

The Challenge

Puerto Rico’s north coast stretches across some of the Caribbean’s most dynamic and vulnerable shorelines. Decades of coastal development, sand extraction, vehicular traffic on beaches, invasive species encroachment, and increasingly severe hurricane seasons have degraded critical dune systems, mangrove forests, and sea turtle nesting habitat. Casuarina equisetifolia and Scaevola taccada have displaced native dune vegetation, while unmanaged coastal access has fragmented the very ecosystems that buffer communities against storm surge and sea-level rise.

In municipalities like Loíza, Manatí, Camuy, Isabela, and Aguada, low-income coastal communities face compounding threats: loss of ecological services, flooding, erosion, and diminished fisheries. These communities needed a partner that could combine rigorous science with sustained community engagement, one that would remain committed not for a single grant cycle but for the long arc of ecological recovery. At the same time, the Caribbean region faced and continues to face a critical shortage of trained ecological restoration practitioners, limiting the capacity of island nations and territories to respond to accelerating coastal degradation.

Born in the Classroom: The Role of Undergraduate Students

Vida Marina did not begin as a top-down institutional initiative. It was born from the energy, curiosity, and commitment of undergraduate students at the University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla. In 2007, Dr. Robert J. Mayer and a group of biology undergraduates launched the organization’s first coastal restoration and sea turtle monitoring projects. These students were not assistants to a faculty-led program, they were co-founders of a vision. They conducted the first beach surveys, propagated the first native dune seedlings, organized the first community cleanups, and built the grassroots relationships that would become Vida Marina’s foundation.

That founding ethos has never changed. Across nearly two decades, successive cohorts of undergraduate students have been the primary workforce driving Vida Marina’s field operations, data collection, and community engagement. Students enrolled in courses such as BIOL 3108 (Introduction to Biological Research) gain direct, hands-on experience in ecological restoration, not through simulation or case study but through real projects with real ecological stakes. They learn to propagate Ipomoea pes-caprae and Sporobolus virginicus in campus nurseries, transplant seedlings to degraded dune sites, operate UAV platforms for habitat mapping, install sand-trapping structures, conduct vegetation transects, and present their findings at professional conferences. Many have gone on to graduate programs in ecology, marine science, and environmental management across the Caribbean and the mainland United States.

This model, embedding undergraduate students at the center of applied restoration work, has proven transformative in both directions. The projects benefit from the sustained labor, fresh perspectives, and infectious enthusiasm that students bring to physically demanding fieldwork. The students, in turn, graduate with competencies that no classroom alone could provide: the ability to design and execute restoration plans, manage field logistics, communicate with diverse community partners, and adapt protocols in real time based on ecological monitoring data. Vida Marina has become, in effect, a training ground for the next generation of ecological restoration practitioners in the Caribbean.

Image 2: Undergraduate students and community members conducting native dune planting. Credit: Vida Marina

The Vida Marina Approach

Vida Marina operates at the intersection of applied ecology, community science, undergraduate education, and federal conservation policy. Their work is guided SER's International Principles and Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration and grounded in four pillars: science-driven restoration design, student-centered experiential learning, community co-stewardship, and long-term adaptive management.

Under a ten-year Collaborative Agreement with Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA Contract #2022-000028, 2021–2031), Vida Marina manages restoration activities across the north coast. The team of marine biologists, ecologists, GIS specialists, drone operators, and undergraduate researchers, integrates field restoration with remote sensing, UAV-based monitoring, and community education. They deploy a participatory model in which local fishers, students, and civic organizations are trained as restoration practitioners, not merely volunteers but partners in long-term stewardship.

Their restoration protocols follow a phased approach: baseline ecological assessment via UAV and ground-truthing; invasive species removal and native revegetation using locally propagated Ipomoea pes-caprae, Sporobolus virginicus, Sesuvium portulacastrum, and mangrove species (Rhizophora mangle, Avicennia germinans, Laguncularia racemosa); installation of sand-trapping structures and boardwalks to redirect foot traffic; and long-term monitoring using fixed photo stations and vegetation transects. At every stage, undergraduate students are embedded in the work by collecting data, making field decisions, and contributing to adaptive management.

Image 3: Community volunteers engaged in coastal restoration. Credit: Vida Marina

From Simple Beginnings to Innovative Practice

Vida Marina’s trajectory reflects a deliberate evolution from straightforward, small-scale ecological restoration to increasingly sophisticated, innovation-driven projects that address coastal degradation at landscape scale. In their earliest years, the work was fundamental: removing invasive vegetation, planting native dune species by hand, and organizing beach cleanups. These foundational projects, often carried out by Dr. Mayer and a handful of undergraduate students with limited funding, established the field protocols, community relationships, and ecological baselines upon which everything that followed has been built.

As their understanding of north coast coastal dynamics deepened, so did their methods. One of Vida Marina’s most significant technical contributions has been the development and refinement of biomimicry matrices, engineered structures designed to replicate the natural sand-trapping function of native dune vegetation. Deployed in active dune breaches where wave overwash and wind erosion have cut through the foredune ridge, these matrices promote sediment accumulation by mimicking the drag and turbulence patterns created by dense stands of Sporobolus virginicus and Ipomoea pes-caprae. Over successive tidal and storm cycles, the matrices capture wind-blown and wave-deposited sand, gradually rebuilding the dune profile and creating conditions favorable for natural recolonization by native vegetation. This approach has proven particularly effective at sites where breach widths and sediment deficits were too severe for planting alone to succeed, allowing Vida Marina to restore coastal dune integrity at sites that conventional methods had struggled to address.

Innovation has extended equally to their mangrove restoration work. Rather than relying solely on traditional propagule planting in open mudflats, where survival rates are often low due to wave energy, substrate instability, and herbivory, Vida Marina has developed and tested innovative planting techniques adapted to the high-energy conditions of Puerto Rico’s north coast. These include protective enclosures for young propagules, strategic use of natural and constructed substrates to stabilize root systems during establishment, and phased planting schedules calibrated to seasonal wave energy patterns. The result has substantially improved survival and growth rates for Rhizophora mangle, Avicennia germinans, and Laguncularia racemosa at sites where earlier attempts at mangrove restoration had failed.

This evolution, from simple planting and cleanup to biomimicry-based dune engineering and adaptive mangrove restoration, reflects Vida Marina’s commitment to treating every project as both a restoration intervention and a learning opportunity. Undergraduate students have been central to this process of innovation, contributing observations, testing modifications in the field, and helping to document outcomes that have refined their protocols over successive project cycles.

Most recently, this trajectory has led Vida Marina to a critical recognition: that in the most severely degraded and high-energy coastal settings, purely nature-based solutions, however well designed, are not always sufficient on their own. Some sites face such extreme wave energy, sediment deficits, or infrastructural pressures that ecological restoration must be integrated with engineered interventions to achieve durable outcomes. To meet this challenge, Vida Marina has partnered with Tetra Tech, a leading coastal engineering firm, and Marvel Architects, a landscape architecture practice with deep expertise in Caribbean coastal design, to develop and implement hybrid infrastructure projects that combine nature-based restoration with engineered coastal protection.

Image 4: Climate resilience training to implement nature-based solutions in the Caribbean. Credit: Vida Marina

In these collaborations, Vida Marina contributes its ecological expertise, community relationships, and field monitoring capacity, while Tetra Tech provides hydrodynamic modeling, structural engineering, and sediment transport analysis, and Marvel brings landscape-scale design vision that integrates ecological function with public access, cultural identity, and long-term resilience. The resulting projects represent a new frontier for Vida Marina: coastal interventions where living shorelines, restored mangrove buffers, and rehabilitated dune systems work in concert with strategically placed hard and soft engineered structures to protect communities and ecosystems alike. This willingness to move beyond a strictly nature-based approach, while keeping ecological restoration at the core of every design, positions Vida Marina at the leading edge of coastal resilience practice in the Caribbean, and reflects the maturation of an organization that has never stopped learning from the coastlines it serves.

Loíza: A Model of Community-Driven Restoration

Nowhere is Vida Marina’s impact more visible or more deeply rooted in community partnership than in Loíza. This historically Afro-Caribbean municipality on Puerto Rico’s northeast coast has 15 kilometers of shoreline that face chronic erosion, storm surge, and habitat loss. For many of Loíza’s coastal residents, the health of the shoreline is inseparable from their livelihoods, cultural identity, and physical safety.

Through the NOAA Loíza Coastal Restoration Project (Award NA23NMF4630141), Vida Marina has conducted one of the most intensive community-based restoration efforts in Puerto Rico’s recent history. The results are substantial: 43 coastal breaches repaired, 526 meters of elevated boardwalks installed, 72% mangrove vegetation cover achieved at key sites, and over 290 community volunteers mobilized, all guided by 40 UAV mapping missions that enabled precise, data-driven intervention across four coastal zones.

But the numbers alone do not capture what Vida Marina has built in Loíza. Over years of sustained presence, the organization has cultivated a community network that is rare in its depth and reach. Taller Pescantil Inc. and the Escuela Pescantil bring the knowledge and commitment of Loíza’s fishing families into every restoration decision. El Ceiba Inc., led by Wilfredo Fuentes, connects restoration goals to broader community development. Centro TAU and ACAM extend the network into environmental education and civic engagement. The Boys & Girls Club of Loíza engages the next generation directly, embedding ecological awareness in youth programming. Together, these organizations form an interconnected web of local stewardship that sustains restoration outcomes long after any single project cycle ends.

This community infrastructure is not incidental to the restoration work, it is the restoration work. When Tropical Storm Ernesto struck Loíza (FEMA-4850-DR), it was these local partners who first reported damage, helped triage sites, and mobilized for recovery. When Vida Marina proposed new restoration initiatives, it was these partners who shaped priorities based on local knowledge of coastal dynamics, land use, and community need. Loíza has become a living laboratory for how ecological restoration and community resilience can be advanced simultaneously, and a model that Vida Marina is now extending to other coastal municipalities.

A Coastal Network: From Camuy to Loíza

Vida Marina’s community partnerships extend well beyond Loíza. Across nine municipalities of Puerto Rico’s north coast including Camuy, Hatillo, Arecibo, Barceloneta, Manatí, Vega Baja, Dorado, Toa Baja, and Loíza, the organization has built relationships with municipal governments, community-based organizations, fishing cooperatives, schools, and civic groups. This network, developed over 17 years of consistent field presence, enables Vida Marina to mobilize restoration capacity rapidly, share knowledge across sites, and maintain long-term stewardship commitments that outlast individual grant cycles.

Key partners across this network include Protectores de Cuencas Inc. (watershed protection and wetland monitoring), Environmental Mapping Consultants LLC (geospatial analysis), Tetra Tech PR and Marvel Architects (engineering and architectural design for nature-based coastal infrastructure), and dozens of local civic organizations at individual beach sites. The result is a distributed but cohesive restoration infrastructure spanning more than 100 kilometers of coastline, one of the most extensive community-based coastal restoration networks in the Caribbean.

Outcomes and Impact

Over 17 years, Vida Marina has compiled a record of measurable impact across Puerto Rico’s north coast:

• 445+ field events conducted across multiple municipalities (March 2023–February 2026 alone)
• 25 coastal dune sites restored across nine municipalities, from Camuy to Loíza
• 43 coastal breaches repaired along Loíza’s shoreline through the NOAA Coastal Restoration Project
• 526 meters of elevated boardwalks installed to protect restored dune habitat
• 72%  mangrove vegetation cover achieved at Loíza restoration sites
• 290+ community volunteers engaged in Loíza restoration activities
• 40 UAV mapping missions completed for monitoring and adaptive management
• ~$8M in federal grants secured from NOAA, NFWF, EPA, and FEMA
• $37.23 return on investment per dollar invested, based on documented ecological and infrastructure outcomes
• 100s of undergraduate students trained in hands-on ecological restoration since 2007

The flagship NFWF Project #65768 demonstrated that community-based dune restoration can achieve structural and ecological recovery at scale, creating a replicable model now being extended to new sites. The Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program of Puerto Rico, launched under Vida Marina’s leadership, earned the EPA Environmental Quality Award in 2008 and continues to remove fishing line debris from coastal habitats island-wide.

Image 6: Community education and engagement session. Credit: Vida Marina

Training the Next Generation of Caribbean Restoration Practitioners

The Caribbean faces an acute and growing need for trained ecological restoration practitioners. Island ecosystems across the region are under compounding pressure from climate change, sea-level rise, intensifying hurricane seasons, and coastal overdevelopment. Yet the number of professionals with the field skills, scientific training, and community engagement experience to lead restoration at meaningful scales remains critically low. Graduate programs in ecology and environmental science produce researchers, but the Caribbean has few pathways for developing practitioners, specifically people who can plan, execute, and adaptively manage restoration projects on the ground, in partnership with the communities that depend on those ecosystems.

Vida Marina has worked to fill this gap since its founding. By embedding undergraduate students directly in federally funded restoration projects, not as peripheral helpers, but as integral members of the field team, Vida Marina provides an immersive training experience that is rare anywhere in the Caribbean and unique in Puerto Rico. Students learn the full lifecycle of restoration work: writing monitoring protocols, navigating regulatory frameworks, coordinating with community partners, managing field logistics under challenging conditions, and interpreting ecological data to inform adaptive decisions. They graduate not only with research skills, but with the practical competencies that define a restoration practitioner.

This training pipeline is not abstract. Former Vida Marina students have pursued graduate studies in marine science, coastal ecology, and conservation biology. Others have entered the environmental consulting and natural resource management workforce in Puerto Rico and beyond. Several have returned to Vida Marina as professional staff members, bringing their advanced training back into the organization and mentoring the next cohort of undergraduate researchers. The result is a self-reinforcing cycle: each generation of students strengthens the organization’s capacity, which in turn creates a richer training environment for the generation that follows.

In a region where ecological restoration is increasingly recognized as essential infrastructure, not a luxury, but a necessity for community survival, Vida Marina’s role as a training institution is as important as its role as a restoration practitioner. The Caribbean cannot meet the scale of its coastal restoration challenge without a dramatically larger workforce of skilled professionals. Vida Marina is building that workforce, one undergraduate cohort at a time, from one of the communities and coastlines that need it most.

A testament to this commitment is the establishment of an SER student association at the University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla, the only SER student association in the Caribbean. Housed within the same academic environment that gives rise to Vida Marina’s field teams, the association provides undergraduates with a direct connection to the global restoration community: access to SER’s standards of practice, professional development opportunities, networking with restoration practitioners worldwide, and a framework for understanding their fieldwork within the broader discipline. For students who might otherwise see their experience as local and isolated, the SER student association opens a window onto the global movement of which their work on Puerto Rico’s beaches is already a part. It also signals to the broader SER community that the Caribbean is not merely a region in need of restoration, it is a region actively producing restoration leaders.

Lessons Learned

Students are not the future of restoration, they are its present. The most consequential decision Vida Marina ever made was to place undergraduate students at the center of its field operations from the very beginning. Every major milestone in the organization’s history, from the first dune plantings to the most complex NOAA-funded restoration projects has been achieved with students as essential contributors. When young people are entrusted with real responsibility in real ecosystems, they rise to meet it, and the ecosystems benefit.

Persistence outpaces any single intervention. Coastal dune systems in the tropics are high-energy environments subject to repeated disturbance. Vida Marina's most successful sites are those where they maintained a sustained presence, returning after storms, replanting where necessary, and adapting access controls. Restoration in these systems is not a single event but a long-term commitment.

Community ownership transforms outcomes. When fishers and local organizations become co-stewards of restoration sites, the trajectory of recovery changes fundamentally. In Loíza, partnerships with Taller Pescantil Inc., El Ceiba Inc., Centro TAU, ACAM, and the Boys & Girls Club have created a network of local advocates who monitor sites and report disturbances independently. Restoration ecology practiced without community integration is fragile; practiced with it, it becomes self-sustaining.

Technology must serve the field, not replace it. UAV mapping, GIS analysis, and AI tools have been transformative for their monitoring capacity, but they complement, never substitute for, regular ground-truthing and the ecological judgment of experienced practitioners. Their 14-station monitoring network across Loíza integrates remote sensing with direct observation, ensuring that data drives adaptive management in real time.

Image 7: Undergraduate research students  working on a research project involving the use of Sargassum as a soil amendment to be used in the propagation of mangrove plants. Credit: Vida Marina

Looking Forward

Vida Marina is expanding its scope to address the compounding pressures of climate change on Puerto Rico’s coasts. Current and emerging initiatives include a Wetland Program Plan for Coastal Wetlands under EPA funding, new coastal resilience proposals integrating nature-based infrastructure with architectural design, and an environmental education program called Coastal Guardians with AI that will train 800 community participants in Loíza to use technology-assisted monitoring tools for long-term stewardship of restored ecosystems.

Critically, Vida Marina is also deepening its commitment to practitioner training. Through expanded summer research courses, new partnerships with Caribbean institutions, and a growing alumni network of former undergraduate researchers now working in conservation and environmental management, the organization is positioning itself as a regional hub for restoration training. As part of this vision, the University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla is actively seeking to establish a formal academic partnership with the SER's Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner in Training (CERPIT) program, an institutional relationship that would formalize the integration of SER’s standards of practice, certification pathways, and professional development resources into UPRAg’s curriculum and field programs. Such a partnership would be among the first of its kind in the Caribbean, creating a recognized academic pathway from undergraduate coursework and field experience through Vida Marina to professional standing within the global restoration community. For students in Puerto Rico and across the region, it would mean that the skills they develop restoring dunes and mangroves on the north coast carry formal recognition in an international discipline, and that the Caribbean has a home institution dedicated to producing the restoration practitioners the region so urgently needs.

As we approach our third decade, our vision remains what it has been since a group of undergraduate students and their professor walked onto a degraded beach in 2007 and decided to do something about it: that the ecological restoration of Puerto Rico’s coastline must be led by science, powered by the next generation, sustained by community, and measured by the recovery of the ecosystems themselves.

Read Other Restoration Stories

In addition to Restoration Stories, SER provides a public directory of restoration projects from around the world. This project directory, hosted on SER's Restoration Resource Center, serves as a valuable resource for restoration practitioners, researchers, educators, students, and the general public. Access the directory here.

Located in the northernmost part of Osaka Prefecture, the project focuses on several important Satoyama sites designated by Japan's Ministry of the Environment. These ecosystems represent a traditional Japanese landscape shaped by more than 1,000 years of human activity, creating a mosaic of secondary forests, rice fields, and wetlands. The project area includes the Zephyrus forests on Mt. Mikusa, the northernmost beech forest in Osaka Prefecture on Mt. Myōken, and Ziou Marsh, a site of high ecological value.

The Nature Conservation Society of Japan (NACS-J) leads the project with funding from a grant awarded through SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action program, in collaboration with Microsoft's Global Datacenter Community Affairs team. Project partners include the Foundation of Osaka Green Trust, Nose Myokenzan Buna Mori no Kai, and local community members. In addition, NACS-J works in cooperation with the Nose Town local government.

A Legacy of Human and Nature Harmony

Despite their historical and ecological importance, these Satoyama ecosystems face growing threats. The abandonment of traditional land management has accelerated vegetation succession and enabled invasive species to spread. On Mt. Myōken, Mt. Mikusa, and Ziou Marsh, increasing sika deer populations have further degraded habitat conditions for rare native plants and animals. The project seeks to reverse these trends by reintroducing active management to restore balance between the community and its surrounding ecosystems.

The project prioritizes three sites. Ziou Marsh supports rare species such as the White Egret Flower (Pecteilis radiata), Asian pogonia (Pogonia japonica), and the Japanese fire-bellied newt (Cynops pyrrhogaster). On Mt. Mikusa restoration efforts focus on protecting the Zephyrus forest and its high diversity of butterfly species. Mt. Myōken hosts the northernmost beech forest in Osaka Prefecture. Across all sites, the loss of traditional management, the spread of invasive species, and rising deer populations continue to threaten biodiversity.

Project Goals and Implementation Strategies

The project aims to restore Satoyama ecosystems and biodiversity through targeted standards-based restoration interventions. Key objectives include restoring grassland and young deciduous forest habitats, rehabilitating wetlands, and protecting recovering vegetation from grazing pressure.

Reference Ecosystems and Planning

The project uses the traditional Satoyama landscape as its reference ecosystem. In Osaka's humid climate, unmanaged succession typically leads to dense evergreen forests. However, the reference condition for this project reflects open deciduous forests and wetlands maintained for centuries through sustainable agriculture. By prioritizing areas such as Mt. Myōken, the Zephyrus forests, and Ziou Marsh, the project team aligns restoration actions with the region's historical biodiversity patterns.

Restoring Forest and Wetland Habitats

To improve habitat conditions for grassland species and butterflies, the team will selectively remove coniferous plantations, to increase light penetration to the forest floor. This approach supports the recovery of the traditional Satoyama canopy, as well as endangered grassland plants.

In abandoned rice fields, restoration efforts focus on removing reeds, cattails, and invasive plants. Workers use hand tools to create small pools that restore wetland conditions. These shallow water features support the natural re-establishment of native wetland plants.

To protect the genetic integrity of native species, the project relies on natural regeneration rather than transplanting or introducing species from outside the area. Restoration activities aim to support critically endangered insects, including dragonflies such as Scarlet Dwarf (Nannophya pygmaea), butterflies such as Spindasis takanonis, and other aquatic insect species.

Controlling Degradation Factors

Insufficient land management remains the primary driver of ecosystem degradation in Nose Town. The project addresses this challenge by installing deer-exclusion fencing to protect recovering vegetation from overgrazing. Specialized contractors manage large-scale interventions, including tree removal with chainsaws and the use of heavy machinery to rehabilitate abandoned farmland. Through these actions, NACS-J seeks to establish a sustainable management system that reduces pressure from invasive species and supports long-term ecosystem recovery.

Collaborative Partnerships and Community Engagement

The project relies on strong partnerships with organizations that have deep roots in the region, including the Foundation of Osaka Green Trust and Nose Myokenzan Buna Mori no Kai. NACS-J also works closely with the Nose Town local government to establish a framework for community-based restoration. Engagement with landowners and residents allows the project to integrate traditional resource management knowledge passed down through generations of Satoyama stewardship.

A strong community of care underpins the long-term success of Satoyama restoration. The project creates opportunities for local residents, elementary schools, and Microsoft employees to participate directly in conservation activities. Community volunteers help carry out tasks that require careful, hands-on work, such as removing invasive species while protecting native plants. Microsoft employees participate in events that combine site tours with restoration activities. In addition, the project collaborates with local elementary schools to deliver nature-based educational programs for underprivileged children and to track behavioral changes to assess the impact of conservation engagement.

Project Timeline and Anticipated Progress

The project began in April 2025. Active implementation will continue through October 2026, followed by two years of monitoring and maintenance.

Expected outcomes include:

• Restoration of up to four hectares of critical wetland and grassland habitat
• Increased populations of endangered species, including the Japanese fire-bellied newt and multiple Zephyrus butterfly species
• Establishment of a framework for nature restoration in collaboration with local municipalities
• Enhanced ecosystem services through restored wetland and grassland soils

Alignment with SER Standards

By applying the SER Standards and Principles for ecological restoration, NACS-J has a greater chance of meeting its project goals. The project adheres to SER restoration principles by:

1. Integrating diverse and relevant knowledge: Combining traditional land management practices with the restoration ecology expertise of NACS-J.
2. Promoting inclusive participation: Engaging schools, residents, and corporate volunteers in local restoration activities.
3. Addressing drivers of degradation: Reducing habitat loss through renewed traditional land management and protective deer fencing.
4. Enhancing biodiversity integrity and viability: Supporting species at high risk of extinction, including some Satoyama species.
5. Maximizing net ecological and social benefits: Applying standards-based restoration that supports Satoyama ecosystems, biodiversity and a strong community of care.
6. Informed by native reference ecosystems: Activities are informed by native Satoyama reference ecosystems and guided by baseline ecological assessments and expert knowledge.

Through the leadership of NACS-J and the active involvement of the Nose Town community, this project is renewing the long-standing relationship between people and nature in the Satoyama landscape and helping secure its future for generations to come.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Nature Conservation Society of Japan. Learn more here.

Victorian Volcanic Plain Grasslands landscape

Located in Melbourne, Australia, the Grassy Plains Management Team project focuses on two main sites: Iramoo Wildflower Grassland Reserve in Cairnlea, with an additional site at Bababi Djinanang on Merri Creek in Fawkner. Together, these areas hold some of the last high-quality remnants of the critically endangered Natural Temperate Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain.

This ecosystem is among the most at-risk in Australia and is classified as critically endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. Although these grasslands are ecologically and culturally significant, they continue to decline, driven in part by a gap in leadership capacity for establishing Seed Production Areas (SPAs) and a largely underdeveloped commercial native seed industry. The project's restoration activities aim to strengthen and buffer remnant communities, increasing their resilience and long-term survival.

Led by The Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) and the Grassy Plains Network (GPN), the project is funded by a grant awarded as part of the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) Standards-based Restoration in Action program, in collaboration with Microsoft's Datacenter Community Affairs team. Collaborators include Moondani Balluk, Merri-bek City Council, CCRCoM, the Green Lab at Iramoo, Friends of Iramoo, and Merri Creek Management Committee, with the University of Melbourne contributing research guidance.

Project Goals and Implementation Strategies

The project's purpose is to protect and restore critically endangered native grasslands. Key goals include establishing SPAs, conducting in-ground restoration, engaging community members and volunteers, and documenting and communicating outcomes.

Reference Ecosystems and Planning

A central component of the project is the use of defined reference ecosystems to guide restoration. Because most grasslands in the region are degraded, identifying an intact reference site is difficult. The project therefore relies on the general description of the Plains Grassland Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC 132_61) as the primary reference.

At Iramoo, the nearby Featherheads Wildflower Grassland serves as a nominated reference site due to its species-richness and strong response to restoration activities. At the Bababi Djinanang site, several high-quality grasslands along the Merri Creek corridor serve as benchmarks. Cooper Street Grassland, which is both biodiverse and well documented, is a key reference site, as is Ngarri-djarrang, located immediately opposite Bababi Djinanang.

Establishing Seed Production Infrastructure

 To address major gaps in seed availability, the team is establishing permanent SPA infrastructure. Grant funding will support two SPAs based at the Iramoo Native Nursery and hosted by Moondani Balluk at Victoria University.

1. An in-ground SPA is designed to produce a range of native grass seeds, including Bothriochloa macra, Chloris truncata, Dichanthium sericeum, Rytidosperma sp., Stipa sp., and Themeda triandra.
2. A bench-top SPA is designed to produce a large and diverse range of native forb seeds, including threatened species.

This infrastructure will provide reliable seed supply well beyond the lifetime of the grant and will help demonstrate what effective, community-centered seed production can achieve.

Innovative In-Ground Restoration: Seed harvested from the SPAs will support in-ground restoration at Iramoo Wildflower Grassland Reserve and Bababi Djinanang. The team plans to use an innovative "cap and sow" technique, developed by the University of Melbourne, at Bababi Djinanang. The method uses weed-free, low-nutrient fill as a substrate for sowing, limiting opportunities for weed establishment, reducing long-term maintenance costs, and avoiding disturbance to cultural heritage. The low-nutrient fill comes from on Country, the lands of the Wurundjeri of which Bababi Djinanang is part. At Bababi Djinanang, the cap and sow method will help create a species-rich patch that resists weed invasion, enhances ecological function and serves as a drawcard for community engagement.

Controlling Degradation Factors: Restoration by seed is emerging as a cost-effective, scalable way to reconstruct native grasslands. By establishing dense, species-rich plantings, the project reduces long-term weed pressure, which is a primary driver of degradation. Site preparation and maintenance, including new infrastructure such as fencing, will support ecosystem health over time. Reducing invasive species remains essential for restoring ecosystem function.

Community engagement and volunteer activities

Community engagement plays a central role in building a "community of care" around Melbourne's grasslands and the local environment. The project offers meaningful opportunities for participation, education, and training.

The project team, including the GPN and VNPA, coordinate community outreach and education, while the Friends of Iramoo and Merri Creek Management Committee, a long-standing community group, lead on-the-ground restoration efforts.

Volunteer engagement follows an ongoing, seasonal program that includes nursery tasks (such as pricking out seedlings and seed harvesting), site preparation, planting events, and visits to local grasslands. Microsoft employees also have opportunities to participate through SPA and grassland tours and hands-on seed collection. Long-time partners, including the GREEN Lab at Iramoo, have extensive community engagement experience, hosting diverse groups ranging from tertiary and secondary students to Scouts Australia and groups supporting neurodiverse adults.

Project Timeline and Anticipated Progress

The project launched in early 2025 and implementation will take two years, followed by a third year dedicated to monitoring and maintenance.

Expected outcomes include:

• Permanent establishment of SPA infrastructure for ongoing restoration
• Restoration of grassland across at least two sites, improving ecosystem function
• Increased understanding of cap and sow restoration techniques
• Expanded community participation, education, and visibility for partners

Alignment with SER Standards

By applying the SER Standards and Principles for ecological restoration, the Grassy Plains Management Team project has a greater chance of meeting its goals. The project adheres to SER restoration principles by :

1. Integrating diverse and relevant technical knowledge: The project incorporates expertise from local research ecologists, regional species specialists, Indigenous knowledge holders at Moondani Balluk, and current science and technology on grassy meadow restoration.
2. Promoting inclusion and participation of diverse community members: The team is implementing a seasonal volunteer program involving community groups, educational institutions, and corporate volunteers, including Microsoft staff.
3. Identifying and reducing indirect and direct causes of degradation: By establishing permanent SPAs and reestablishing native species-rich restoration sites, the project directly reduces weed-driven degradation.
4. Increasing the integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity: At the Iramoo Wildflower Grassland Reserve site, the team will reintroduce threatened, rare, and missing species. At Bababi Djinanang, the cap and sow method will establish a species-rich patch that resists invasion and recruits into neighboring grassland.
5. Aiming to achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible: The project builds lasting seed infrastructure, strengthens conservation capacity, and improves the resilience of these grasslands. It also engages a wide community, enhancing well-being and social equity.

Through the leadership of the VNPA and the GPN, and with strong involvement from partner organizations and community members, this project is advancing essential seed infrastructure and strengthening the future of Melbourne's critically endangered native grasslands.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Victorian National Parks Association and the Grassy Plains Network. Learn more here.

Image 1: Araucaria Forest restoration area in southern Brazil. Credit: Gabriela Goebel

What is known about the history of the region or site?

The region and project location is in southern Brazil, within the Atlantic Forest biome, specifically in the Araucaria Forest ecosystem. Historically, this biome once covered 17 Brazilian states, but today only 12.5% of its original extent remains. The Araucaria Forest is even more threatened, with only about 3% of its original coverage still standing.

What was the ecosystem like before it was degraded?

Before widespread degradation, the ecosystem was characterized by native Araucaria forests and high biodiversity, including thousands of endemic species. It is home to critical plants such as araucária (Araucaria angustifolia) and xaxim-bugio (Dicksonia sellowiana), and threatened fauna including papagaio-de-peito-roxo (Amazona vinacea). This landscape provided essential ecosystem functions such as water supply, soil protection, and habitat for species found nowhere else in the world.

Image 2: Native species in the restoration area. Credit: Miriam Prochnow

Is the area known for any specific ecological or social values?

The entire project area lies within one of the UNESCO-recognized Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve zones and therefore holds important ecological, cultural, and social values. These include conservation of biodiversity, protection of scenic and natural heritage, and the maintenance of ecosystem services, especially water provision, soil stability, and climate regulation. Socially, the region is home to rural communities whose well-being is closely connected to the health of the landscape.

Image 3: Restoration activities. Credit: Miriam Prochnow

What led Apremavi in partnership with Tetra Pak to work on this project?

The Araucaria Forest, one of the most vulnerable ecosystems within the Atlantic Forest with highly threatened biodiversity, motivated the decision to invest in a large-scale restoration initiative aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change. The project is implemented by Apremavi, a local NGO dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the Atlantic Forest since 1987, in partnership with Tetra Pak, a multinational leader company. Key drivers included supporting global climate commitments, preventing biodiversity loss, assisting rural landowners in meeting environmental legislation, and creating a replicable model for nature-based climate solutions.

Video: Overview of the Conservador das Araucárias restoration project.

Were there any challenges while starting the project?

The initial phase of the project was complex. Activities included conducting pilot restoration work, mobilizing and engaging rural landowners, producing seedlings and mapping properties at scale, while also establishing agreements and technical plans suited to the local context. Despite these complexities, the pilot phase successfully restored 87 hectares, laying the foundation for the project's expansion.

Image 4: Seedling production for restoration efforts. Credit: Wigold Schäffer

Were there any major surprises throughout the project?

A surprise was the project's rapid operational growth: the restored area expanded from 185 hectares in 2023 to 1,292 hectares in 2024, an almost fivefold increase. By May 2025, 2,593 hectares were already undergoing restoration in partnership with 19 properties. Another positive outcome was the strong engagement of local rural producers, especially smallholders, who actively contributed by validating technical plans, implementing restoration activities, and joining seed collection networks. Additionally, the significant social gains, including income generation and heightened environmental awareness, exceeded initial projections and demonstrated the project's broader impact beyond ecological restoration.

Image 5: Restored landscape showing regeneration progress. Credit: Miriam Prochnow

How does physically being at the restored site make you feel?

Visiting the restored areas in person brings a strong sense of optimism and renewal. Seeing degraded landscapes return to life demonstrates the tangible power of ecological restoration to address both climate and biodiversity crises. The project fosters a sense of purpose and responsibility, especially as local communities begin to benefit from cleaner water, healthier soils, and new sources of income.

Image 6: Planting effort and visits to properties served by the Araucaria Conservation Center in Atalanta. Credit: Wigold Schäffer

What are your hopes for this site in the long-term?

Long-term expectations for the site include reaching 7,000 hectares under restoration by 2030; ensuring lasting protection of large rural properties through Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs) and ecological corridors; promoting healthy ecosystems that are resilient to climate change and natural disasters; strengthening local economies through carbon payments, non-timber forest products, and potential ecotourism; and serving as a replicable model for other threatened ecosystems.

Image 6: Community consultation and engagement meeting. Credit: Carolina Schaffer

Why did you submit your project to the Restoration Resource Center?

The project was submitted to contribute to global knowledge exchange on ecological restoration and to highlight an innovative large-scale restoration model in one of the world's most threatened biomes, combined with carbon capture to mitigate climate change. The submission aims to share learnings and methodologies with the restoration community; inspire the replication of similar initiatives in other regions; demonstrate how strategic partnerships and community engagement can generate ecological, social, and climate benefits; and connect with networks that can strengthen large-scale restoration and long-term support.

Read Other Restoration Stories

In addition to Restoration Stories, SER provides a public directory of restoration projects from around the world. This project directory, hosted on SER's Restoration Resource Center, serves as a valuable resource for restoration practitioners, researchers, educators, students, and the general public. Access the directory here.

Located on the Te Atatū Peninsula in Auckland, New Zealand, Harbourview Orangihina Reserve holds significant cultural and ecological importance. It supports a range of diverse native ecosystems, including freshwater wetlands, salt marshes, and indigenous coastal forests. However, the area was historically drained for agriculture and many areas have since become overrun with invasive pest plants.

Recognising the need for action, Community Waitākere began to work towards restoring the area's ecological health and in turn, its cultural and community value. The park provides vital habitat for rare and native plant species, as well as several threatened bird species, which are a key focus of pest control efforts in the area.

This project is funded in part by SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft's Datacenter Community Affairs team and focuses on a 3-hectare area within the park. It is also supported by the Henderson Massey Local Board and Auckland Council.

Project Goals and Implementation Strategies

Reference Ecosystems & Planning: A crucial part of this effort involves collecting baseline data for the project area and developing reference models to guide the restoration process. The team relies on reference ecosystems based on Auckland Council's documentation to ensure the appropriate selection of native plants. They have identified suitable reference ecosystems and created a model to inform their restoration work. This model helps determine which native plants will thrive under local site conditions, using Auckland Council's ecosystem documentation as a key resource for plant lists and specifications. Additionally, SER's Recovery Wheel tool is used to track progress by comparing current conditions to the target reference ecosystem.

Planting and Natural Recovery: The restoration strategy emphasizes re-establishing native ecosystems through both planting and natural regeneration. This includes developing a structured planting plan and sourcing rare native species such as Syzygium maire (Swamp Maire) and Scandia rosifolia (Koheriki), and other native plants like Laurelia novae-zelandiae, Dacrydium dacrydioides, and Astelia grandis. The planting plan identifies specific areas for each species, ensuring that harder-to-find plants like Swamp Maire and Koheriki are incorporated. In some areas where native vegetation is already naturally regenerating, the team actively supports these recovery processes.

Controlling Invasive Species: Managing invasive plants and introduced predators is essential for establishing native vegetation and supporting threatened bird populations. Specialist contractors are hired to remove particularly challenging species, such as pampas and Japanese honeysuckle, in areas where community-led management is not feasible.

Forest & Bird Waitākere members also play a vital role in protecting threatened bird species at Harbourview Orangihina Reserve. Volunteers manage pest control lines and trap invasive species such as possums, rats, and stoats, helping to maintain safe habitats for native birds. Their ongoing efforts specifically focus on protecting:

• Mātātā (Fernbird), at risk and declining
• Moho pererū (Banded Rail), at risk and declining
• Pūweto (Spotless Crake), declining

Community Engagement

Community engagement is central to the project, providing meaningful opportunities for participation, education, and training. The project team continues to build partnerships and actively involves local organizations, academic institutions, and community members. The team works alongside other community groups and organisations through the Te Atatū Te Taiao Network, to inform each other's work and coordinate their efforts in the park.

Volunteer efforts are also coordinated within the local community and through partnerships with local schools who assist with planting and educational opportunities. The project also supports existing volunteer-led animal pest control initiatives to protect threatened bird species. Progress is collaboratively tracked through established monitoring methods with Forest & Bird Waitākere and Birds New Zealand.

These effective community engagement efforts strengthen long-term community ownership of the Harbourview Orangihina Park and improve the likelihood of successfully achieving the communities' aspirations.

Project Progress and Milestones

Since the project began in April 2024, significant progress has been made, including:

• Invasive species control and site preparation: Specialist contractors have been engaged to manage invasive plants, creating new planting opportunities. Notably, dry summer conditions have unexpectedly improved the effectiveness of certain herbicide applications.
• Planting preparations: A diverse mix of native species is being sourced, with major planting efforts scheduled for autumn when conditions are most favorable.
• Volunteer-led pest control: Efforts to manage possums, rats, and stoats are effectively protecting threatened bird species.

Despite challenges such as planting delays due to a dry summer and the ongoing need to manage emerging invasive weeds, the project remains on track. The team has adapted by adjusting planting schedules to better suit environmental conditions and continuously monitoring invasive species.

Alignment with SER Standards

By applying the SER Standards and Principles for ecological restoration, the Harbourview Orangihina Park restoration project has a greater chance of meeting its goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The project adheres to SER restoration principles by :

1. Integrating diverse and relevant technical knowledge: The project utilizes the significant expertise of Community Waitākere staff and is guided by the Harbourview Orangihina Community Restoration Plan (2021). Furthermore, indigenous knowledge from project partners is being actively incorporated.
2. Promoting inclusion and participation of diverse community members: The project supports social equity by creating opportunities for community engagement and skill-building. The project actively engages local groups and educational institutions through various planting and engagement opportunities, fostering long-term community ownership.
3. Identifying and reducing indirect and direct causes of degradation: By prioritizing the control of invasive species, both through specialist contractors and community efforts, the project aims to restore the natural function of previously drained wetlands and protect threatened native bird species.
4. Increasing the integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity: The project is increasing the viability of local ecosystem habitats by restoring native plant communities, supporting natural regeneration, and protecting threatened bird species through pest control efforts.
5. Aiming to achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible: The project seeks to create an urban green space that serves as both a wildlife refuge and a community resource.

Through the efforts of Community Waitākere and the enthusiastic involvement of the local community, the project is making significant progress towards rehabilitating Harbourview Orangihina Park. This collaborative, standards-based approach is not only helping to restore a degraded landscape but also fostering a deeper connection between people and nature.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Community Waitākere. Learn more here.

The Kampung Sungai Melayu Mangrove Forest and Perapat River area in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia represents a vital coastal ecosystem of significant ecological importance. These mangrove forests serve as critical habitats for diverse species, natural buffers against coastal erosion, and support local livelihoods through fisheries. However, this important ecosystem faces degradation challenges from pollution, tidal stress, and unsustainable resource use.

Challenges and Approach

The primary threats to the Kampung Sungai Melayu mangrove forest stem from multiple sources. Garbage pollution becomes entangled in mangrove roots, reducing tree lifespan and ecosystem health. Daily extreme tides in the estuary create harsh conditions that hinder natural regeneration, making it especially difficult for young saplings to survive the strong wave action. Additionally, local communities occasionally harvest mangrove wood for infrastructure, adding pressure on habitat integrity.

In response to these challenges, Kelab Belia Prihatin Malaysia has developed a multifaceted, standards-based ecological restoration strategy that addresses both ecological and social drivers of degradation.

Restoration Approach

The "We Be-Leaf Together - Johor Bahru Biodiversity Enhancement" project employs a comprehensive conservation and restoration approach tailored to local conditions. Restoration efforts focus on reestablishing native mangrove vegetation using indigenous species, specifically: Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora apiculata, Avicennia officinalis, and Sonneratia caseolaris, alongside associate species including Nypa fruticans, Cassine viburnifolia, and Pluchea indica.

Planting methods adapt to challenging hydrological conditions. Rhizophora sprouts are buried one-third deep for enhanced stability, while Sonneratia seedlings are potted, trimmed, and transported in bamboo baskets to minimize wave damage during installation. Bamboo and locally sourced materials are used to support and stabilize saplings exposed to tidal currents. Additionally, invasive species are identified and removed through targeted surveys carried out in collaboration with ecological experts.

To combat marine debris, the team installed an innovative log boom constructed from recycled HDPE containers. Anchored to existing structures like trees, this barrier effectively captures floating waste without disrupting natural water flow.

Collaboration and Community Involvement

The project's collaborative model drives its effectiveness through diverse partnerships. The Johor State Forestry Department provides regulatory support and technical expertise, while Ranhill SAJ Sdn Bhd monitors water quality. Researchers from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (LESTARI UKM) conduct ecological surveys and mentor youth researchers. WWF-Malaysia supports training and engagement strategies, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage contributes insights into tidal and coastal conditions, and an expert panel offers ongoing peer review and guidance.

Community participation is also central to the project's design and implementation. Local Kampung Sungai Melayu residents engage through educational programs, employment opportunities, and hands-on restoration activities. Capacity-building sessions train participants in sustainable conservation practices, while volunteers participate in planting, waste collection, birdwatching, and bat monitoring. These activities advance ecological goals while cultivating long-term ecosystem stewardship.

Kelab Belia Prihatin mobilizes an extensive network including over 550 youth participants, 20 citizen scientists, and corporate volunteers including Microsoft datacenter employees. These dedicated individuals contribute thousands of volunteer hours toward direct restoration activities and data collection.

Environmental education and outreach are central to the project's long-term success. Through eco-tours, school programs, and public awareness campaigns, community members and visitors learn about the ecological importance and cultural value of mangroves. At the same time, the project supports economic resilience by promoting sustainable fisheries and eco-tourism, creating alternative livelihoods that strengthen the local economy. By engaging people of all ages and backgrounds, the project fosters a lasting sense of stewardship and connection to the landscape.

From Planning to Implementation

Project implementation began in April 2024 with expert consultations, stakeholder engagement, and strategic site selection. Mid-2024 saw completion of biodiversity assessments and baseline reporting. Field surveys and technical preparations occurred from July through September 2024.

From October 2024 through January 2025, restoration activities intensified across key sites. These included the planting of native mangrove species, removal of invasive flora, and comprehensive training sessions involving corporate volunteers. A central component of this phase was the installation of an innovative log boom system designed to intercept and collect floating debris along the riverbanks near Kampung Sungai Melayu.

Crafted from recycled HDPE containers, the log boom serves both ecological and educational purposes. Functioning as a passive waste interception barrier, it prevents plastic waste from flowing into sensitive mangrove areas, protecting marine life and maintaining water quality. The design also incorporates community-accessible viewing points from the eco-tourism boat ride, turning the log boom into a tool for public environmental awareness. Local community members and fishermen were engaged not only in its construction and deployment but also in monitoring the collected waste, contributing valuable data to inform future waste reduction strategies.

This initiative exemplifies a scalable model for community-led waste mitigation and environmental stewardship. Community restoration events, including clean-up days and eco-education workshops centered around the log boom, continued into early 2025, helping strengthen local engagement and reinforce the connection between waste management and ecosystem health.

Expected Environmental and Social Benefits

The project is designed to deliver measurable ecological outcomes. Restoration efforts aim to improve habitat integrity across 3,000 hectares, support more than 100 native and migratory species, and enhance water quality in the Perapat River. Planting at least 100 native mangrove trees will contribute to carbon sequestration, stabilize shorelines, and increase vegetative cover to strengthen long-term resilience to erosion and climate change.

Equally important, the project promotes social equity by linking ecological restoration with human well-being. By generating an estimated 50 direct and indirect jobs, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and offering educational opportunities, it empowers local communities, particularly the approximately 500 residents of Kampung Sungai Melayu, many of whom are first-generation oil palm farmers. These efforts not only build local capacity but also foster intergenerational connections to the mangrove ecosystem and inspire future environmental stewards.

Alignment with SER Standards

Applying SER standards and principles for ecological restoration increases the "We Be-Leaf Together - Johor Bahru Biodiversity Enhancement" project's potential for success. Standards-based ecological restoration accounts for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigates land use trade-offs, addresses implementation challenges, and enhances design effectiveness. The project adheres to SER restoration principles through :

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: The project integrates expertise from diverse partners, scientific research from universities and specialists, and local indigenous knowledge from the Kampung Sungai Melayu community and farmers.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: Active engagement of diverse community members, including local residents, youth volunteers from Kelab Belia Prihatin, and Microsoft corporate volunteers, fosters shared stewardship.
3. Identifying and Reducing Indirect and Direct Causes of Degradation: Direct intervention addresses key degradation drivers like garbage accumulation and invasive species through specific solutions including the log boom and targeted removal programs, while empowering communities to address indirect pressures.
4. Increase The Integrity, Area, Number, or Viability of Biodiversity: Focusing on native species planting, invasive threat management, and habitat quality enhancement aims to maximize mangrove ecosystem integrity and biodiversity.
5. Achieves and Sustains the Greatest Net Gain Possible: The project aligns with the principle of gaining cumulative value at large scales by restoring 3,000 hectares of mangrove forest, contributing to broader landscape-level ecological resilience. It supports biodiversity, improves water quality in the Perapat River, and enhances carbon sequestration, which together deliver benefits beyond the immediate site. By engaging multiple partners and local communities, the project strengthens regional conservation networks and promotes scalable restoration practices.

The "We Be-Leaf Together - Johor Bahru Biodiversity Enhancement" project demonstrates a comprehensive, collaborative, and standards-based approach to ecological restoration. By integrating diverse knowledge, addressing root degradation causes, and fostering inclusive participation, it seeks to revitalize the mangrove ecosystem while enhancing the well-being of the interconnected community.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Kelab Belia Prihatin Malaysia. Learn more here.

Hotani, an area located in the east of Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture, represents a traditional cultural landscape known as satoyama, where agricultural practices have historically maintained biodiversity and ecosystems. These landscapes consist of a mosaic of farmland, secondary forests, native grasslands, and wetlands, forming socio-ecological production areas where species interactions and human activities have shaped biodiversity over time.

Industrialization and land-use changes have created challenges in many satoyama areas, including farmland abandonment and reduced forest management. In Hotani, this has resulted in non-native bamboo forests expanding and biodiversity declining. Invasive species, such as raccoons (Procyon lotor), have further impacted native species, ecosystems and agricultural practices. Recognizing the ecological importance of the area, Hirakata City has developed a conservation plan that includes restoration efforts.

As part of these restoration efforts, The Nature Conservation Society of Osaka is leading a standards-based restoration project in 0.4 hectares of Hotani forest and 0.2 hectares of wetland, 0.6 hectares of grassland, and 645 square meters of paddy field. The initiative is funded in part by SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action program, in collaboration with Microsoft's Datacenter Community Affairs team.

A Multifaceted Approach to Restoration

The Hotani Satoyama Project employs a comprehensive approach to address the ecological and societal challenges. Restoration efforts focus on reestablishing deciduous broadleaf forests, grasslands, wetlands, and traditional rice and organic vegetable farming systems in the area. Key goals include:

Reestablishing deciduous broadleaf forests: The project focuses on replacing non-native bamboo forests with native deciduous broadleaf species. This includes species such as Quercus serrata and Q. variabilis, along with undergrowth species like azaleas. The seedlings for these trees are grown from locally collected seeds. The project plans to support trees within the 0.4-hectare area.

Regenerating grass meadows and wetlands: A significant part of the project involves regenerating Amur silver-grass (Miscanthus sacchariflorus) meadows and wetlands, which are crucial habitats for native species like the harvest mouse (Micromys minutus). The project plan includes managing tree encroachment on these grasslands.

Cultivating traditional rice and organic vegetables: The project emphasizes the cultivation of traditional rice and organic vegetables using pesticide and chemical fertilizer-free methods, with guidance from local organic farmers. This not only contributes to biodiversity but also supports traditional agricultural practices within the satoyama.

Supporting populations of declining species: A key objective is to support declining species such as the endangered Yamato salamander (Hynobius vandenburghi) and the harvest mouse through habitat enhancement. For the Yamato salamander, this involves rearing and releasing salamander larvae to prevent predation and habitat enhancement, including the restoration of wetlands.

Mitigating damage caused by invasive species: The project recognizes invasive species, particularly raccoons, as a significant threat to native ecosystems and agricultural practices. Therefore, targeted control measures, including trapping, are being implemented.

Utilizing reference sites: The project utilizes specific reference sites to guide the restoration efforts. Kurondo Park, with its traditionally managed secondary satoyama forest, serves as the primary reference for forest restoration. Additionally, a group of reservoirs and rice paddies in Takayama Village serves as a reference for wetland restoration, particularly for the endangered Yamato salamander. These reference sites provide models for the restored area’s desired ecological structure and function.

Collaboration and Community Involvement

The Hotani Satoyama Project relies heavily on collaboration with a diverse range of partners and active engagement with the local community. Participating organizations working with The Nature Conservation Society of Osaka bring specialized expertise crucial for the project's success. These include:

• The Environmental Entomology and Zoology group of Osaka Metropolitan University, which is responsible for monitoring aquatic life
• Hirakata Ikimono Chosakai (Hirakata Nature Research Group), which provides technical guidance on vegetation management and plant monitoring
• Kayanezumi (Harvest Mouse) Network Japan, which conducts surveys of the harvest mouse population
• The NPO Hirakata Biological Breeding LABO, which is involved in breeding and monitoring the endangered Yamato salamander
• The Hirakata City Office, which provides support for raccoon control resources including funding and control tools
• The Nature Conservation Society of Japan, which offers advice on overall project activities
• Local organic farmers, who contribute their expertise in sustainable, pesticide- and chemical fertilizer-free agriculture

The Nature Conservation Society of Osaka has also established connections with the local community through its membership in the Hotani Forest Growing Committee. Local community members, residents of Hotani Ward, and students from nearby Setsunan University actively participate in restoration activities. Volunteer events aim to foster a sense of ownership and provide hands-on experience in ecological restoration. These events include tree planting, rice planting and harvesting, Yamato salamander releases, and wildlife surveys. This collaborative approach ensures the integration of diverse knowledge, including traditional ecological knowledge from local farmers and long-term residents .

Expected Environmental and Social Benefits

Environmentally, the project aims to enhance biodiversity by reestablishing native ecosystems and improving habitats for a variety of species. The targeted restoration of 1.26 hectares of traditional satoyama is expected to mitigate the impacts of invasive species such as non-native bamboo and raccoons and support overall ecosystem integrity.

Specifically, the project plans to replace invasive bamboo forests with native deciduous broadleaf species across 0.4 hectares, supporting trees. This reforestation effort is expected to contribute to carbon sequestration by enhancing the landscape's capacity to absorb and store atmospheric carbon over time.

The project also focuses on regenerating grass meadows and wetlands over 0.6 hectares and 0.2 hectares, respectively, which are crucial habitats for species like the harvest mouse and the endangered Yamato salamander. Habitat enhancement and the rearing and release of salamander larvae by the NPO Hirakata Biological Breeding LABO aim to support declining populations of these key species. The project anticipates supporting at least 15 amphibian species, including the Yamato salamander and Japanese brown frog (Rana japonica), as well as various forest, wetland, and grassland plants and invertebrates .

Socially, the project is expected to improve green spaces within the community, directly benefiting an estimated 100 people. It will also support environmental education, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for satoyama ecosystems. The initiative also supports one job related to bamboo use and organic farming, contributing to local economic activity .

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

By applying the SER standards and Principles for ecological restoration, The Hotani Satoyama Project has a greater chance of meeting its goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The project adheres to SER restoration principles by :

1. Incorporating diverse knowledge and capacity: The Hotani Satoyama Project draws on a broad network of collaborators, each contributing specialized expertise to guide restoration. These include Osaka Metropolitan University's Environmental Entomology and Zoology group,  Hirakata Nature Research Group, the Kayanezumi Network Japan, NPO Hirakata Biological Breeding LABO, and the Nature Conservation Society of Japan. Local organic farmers share their expertise in pesticide- and fertilizer-free agriculture and long-term residents and farmers share traditional ecological knowledge.
2. Promoting inclusivity and participation: The project actively engages residents of Hotani Ward, students from nearby Setsunan University, and Microsoft volunteers through hands-on restoration activities. Furthermore, the Nature Conservation Society of Osaka's long-standing involvement in the Hotani Forest Growing Committee helps foster trust and participation within the local community.
3. Identifying and mitigating causes of degradation: The project addresses the decline of the satoyama landscape by tackling key drivers such as the abandonment of traditional land-use practices and the spread of invasive species like non-native bamboo. Support from Hirakata City's conservation plan provides a policy framework, while project funding helps resolve previous barriers related to resource limitations and delayed habitat recovery.
4. Enhancing biodiversity: The restoration of 1.26 hectares of satoyama aims to strengthen ecosystem function and improve habitat quality, by replacing bamboo forest with native deciduous trees, regenerating pampas grass meadows, and restoring wetland habitat. These ecosystems are crucial for the endangered Yamato salamander and harvest mouse. Through habitat enhancement and species reintroduction efforts, including the breeding and release of salamander larvae, the project is expected to benefit at least 15 amphibian species as well as a range of native plants and invertebrates.‎.
5. Achieving net gain for environmental benefits and social Equity: By aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land, the project advances both environmental and community well-being. The project contributes to carbon sequestration by increasing forest cover and enhancing ecosystem resilience. It also improves biodiversity, supports threatened species, and restores community green spaces. Social benefits include opportunities for environmental education, volunteer engagement, and sustainable livelihoods fostering stronger connections between people and nature.

The Hotani Satoyama Project demonstrates a collaborative, comprehensive, standards-based approach to ecological restoration. By integrating diverse knowledge, addressing root causes of degradation, and fostering inclusive participation, it showcases how community-led efforts can revitalize cultural landscapes and promote long-term ecological health.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Nature Conservation Society of Osaka. Learn more here.

In Hortolândia, São Paulo, Brazil, where only 0.05% of the original forest remains, a collaborative effort is underway to restore a vital green space. Through its Forest of Future program, Fundação SOS Mata Atlântica is implementing an urban forest restoration project that aims to revitalize a 9.1-hectare public area by planting approximately 15,000 native Atlantic Forest trees.

This project seeks to support local climate regulation, improve water quality, provide wildlife habitat, and foster community engagement. The initiative is funded in part by SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action program, in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs, with additional support from the Hortolândia Environment Secretariat.

Ecological Challenges and Project Objectives

This urban forest restoration project in Hortolândia faces several ecological challenges:

• Low floristic diversity: The project area has limited plant biodiversity, with soil cover dominated by non-native Urochloa grasses.
• Invasive species: Approximately one hectare of the area is occupied with non-native Leucaena trees.
• History of fires: Satellite images indicate that fires occurred in the area in 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2018.
• Illegal dumping: The restoration site faces illegal dumping and informal recycling activities.

The project is strategically designed to address these specific ecological challenges by achieving the following objectives:

1. Invasive Species Control: Managing and removing non-native grasses and trees with licensed herbicides, applied over two years to support native species resurgence.
2. Native Species Planting: Enriching the site with regional native species, planting up to 600 individuals per hectare in shaded areas and 2,500 individuals per hectare in other zones, with a total of up to 80 species.
3. Fire Prevention: Establishing firebreaks around the area to prevent the spread of wildfires.
4. Municipal Collaboration: Securing local government support for debris removal, recycling activity relocation, and implementation of informational signage about the restoration process.
5. Community Engagement: Fostering local stewardship through environmental education programs and participatory restoration activities to transform the degraded area into a valuable community green space.

Launched in November 2024, the project will continue through 2026, followed by ongoing monitoring to ensure long-term forest recovery.

Expected Environmental and Social Benefits

This urban forest restoration project delivers important environmental benefits through standard-based restoration. By restoring the forest ecosystem, the project helps regulate the local climate, mitigating urban heat islands and creating a more comfortable microclimate. Additionally, as the forest matures, it will sequester increasing amounts of carbon, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. The project also protects and enhances the five water springs within the site, improving water quality and availability in the region .

Planting native Atlantic Forest trees helps reestablish critical habitats for wildlife, supporting diverse fauna species affected by urbanization. The site is expected to provide habitat for up to 80 native plant species, including Cariniana legalis, Inga edulis, Croton floribundus, and Eugenia uniflora, as well as various fauna species. Additionally, the project implements firebreaks around the perimeter, reducing wildfire risks and protecting both the restored ecosystem and nearby communities .

The project's social dimensions are equally important. Environmental education initiatives aim to engage approximately 160 local residents in planting activities while raising awareness of forest restoration and urban green spaces. These educational efforts encourage community ownership and long-term stewardship of the restored area.

By transforming a degraded landscape into a vibrant green space, the project enhances the quality of life for Hortolândia residents. The restored area provides recreational opportunities, scenic beauty, and spaces for relaxation, exercise, and social gatherings. Beyond aesthetics, the project supports essential ecosystem services, including water supply, climate regulation, while also contributing to biodiversity conservation. It also generates economic benefits by creating jobs in ecological restoration and building local expertise in sustainable land management .

Project Status

As of December 2024, the project team has achieved several important milestones:

• Secured a formal agreement with the municipality of Hortolândia, ensuring long-term project implementation.
• Installed four informational signs featuring QR codes linking to project details throughout the area.
• Distributed educational materials to the local community, increasing awareness and engagement.
• Established firebreaks to protect the site from wildfires.
• Began controlling invasive grass species.
• Completed comprehensive aerial mapping using drone technology, aiding in project planning and providing a baseline for monitoring progress.
• Successfully planted approximately 15,500 native Atlantic Forest tree seedlings.

Additionally, project leaders participated in a training session on SER's Five-Star System and Recovery Wheel. The tools will support project assessment and help build participant capacity. These achievements collectively advance the project's goal of creating a green refuge within the city while fostering a more sustainable and resilient environment.

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

By applying the SER standards and Principles for ecological restoration, this urban forest restoration project has a greater chance of meeting its goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The project adheres to SER restoration principles by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: Drawing on over 20 years of forestry restoration expertise, including SOS Mata Atlântica's extensive experience in ecological forest restoration and scientific research.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: Actively engaging local residents, community groups, and volunteers through environmental education activities.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: Addressing direct drivers of deforestation, invasive species, and fire, as well as indirect pressures like waste dumping, through awareness campaigns and improved signage.
4. Seeks the Highest Level of Ecosystem Recovery Possible: Increasing the ecological integrity of 9.1 hectares through enrichment plantings supporting 80 native flora species and associated fauna‎.
5. Gains Cumulative Value at Large Scales: Creating urban green spaces that serve as wildlife refuges, protect water sources, enhance scenic beauty, and improve residents' quality of life.

This urban forest restoration project shows how collaborative, standards-based ecological restoration supports resilient ecosystems while benefiting both the environment and local communities. By planting native trees, engaging the community, and using SER standards, the project is helping to build a more sustainable and resilient green space in Hortolândia, Brazil.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Fundação SOS Mata Atlântica. Learn more here.

Umyeonsan Mountain, although located on private property, serves as a public park that residents visit daily for recreational and physical activities. Despite its history of damage and degradation from invasive plant species, it is still an important location for the community and a key area for the conservation of natural areas in Seoul. The Plant Ecology Research Team's project will focus on mitigating the negative impacts of Ageratina altissima, commonly known as white snakeroot, which is an invasive plant designated as an invasive alien plant in the Republic of Korea.

Challenges and Approach

Ageratina altissima threatens the Umyeonsan Mountain ecosystem in two ways: it aggressively spreads in natural areas, outcompeting native plants and reducing biodiversity, and it contains tremetol, a toxic substance that can accumulate in livestock milk and endanger human health. These threats underscore the urgent need to control A. altissima and restore native plant diversity.

Previous studies of A. altissima and similar invasive species were limited to short-term or small-scale experiments. The Plant Ecology Research Team at Andong National University is implementing a comprehensive, long-term approach to control this invasive species and restore native biodiversity. The team will employ methods including mechanical removal techniques (e.g., selective uprooting – hand pulling), soil carbon amendments (e.g., applying sawdust), and application of native plant seed mixtures and seed balls containing over 20 species.

A Collaborative Approach to Restoration

This project brings together Andong National University researchers, local communities, and SER's technical expertise. Funding for this project was provided by SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team. This project is also supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the government of Korea, Ministry of Science and ICT.

On 14 June 2024, the research team and 74 volunteers from the community and Microsoft selectively uprooted 6,565 A. altissima plants from an area of approximately 21,600 m2. The team also removed other non-native plant species by hand from the restoration sites including Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, Magnolia obovata Thunb., Phytolacca americana L., Humulus scandens (Lour.) Merr. (invasive), Ambrosia trifida L. (invasive), Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. (invasive), and Amorpha fruticosa L.

The second community engagement event took place on 30 August 2024 where 59 volunteers applied 164 kg of sawdust to 41 treatment plots and removed 1,090 plants. Applied sawdust is a type of soil carbon enrichment practice which will help to change the soil environment into one with lower available nitrogen nutrients, which creates unfavorable conditions for the invasive species to grow and spread. Volunteers also transferred topsoil from the forest interior to roadside areas, leveraging the diverse soil seedbank to support the recovery of native plant diversity.

Community Engagement and Empowerment

Engaging the community is a critical piece of this project. Community volunteers have contributed by helping to eradicate invasive species, sow native plants, and participate in surveys conducted before and after the project. By involving the community, the Plant Ecology Research Team enhances project monitoring and management while promoting an understanding of the importance of biodiversity conservation. Training individuals in practical field skills, for example, advances culturally led restoration and fosters ownership and connection to Umyeonsan Mountain. Community engagement extends beyond the local community to encompass the broader research community by disseminating the project’s outcomes through scientific publications, as well as presentations at SER webinars and conference.

Surveys of volunteers after the 14 June event showed that 80% of volunteers were satisfied with their restoration activities, and 89% agreed that this type of activity changed their minds toward nature conservation. Nearly all volunteers (98%) said they would like to do similar restoration activities again in the future. Surveys of public park visitors were also conducted in July and August of 2024.

These surveys showed that although many participants recognized the problem of invasive species, 33% believed invasive species are not controlled properly right now, and 36% expressed dissatisfaction with the mountain's low biodiversity levels. However, 80% believed our restoration activities will help to improve the ecological conditions of the mountain. These surveys demonstrated the project's success in raising awareness about the impacts of invasive species and the importance of ecological restoration.

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

Employing SER’s standards for this project enhances the Plant Ecology Research Team’s chance of meeting its project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate land-use trade-offs, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The Umyeonsan Mountain project aligns with the principles outlined in the SER standards by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: This project incorporates the expertise of the Plant Ecology Research Team and SER with the practical knowledge of community volunteers.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: The project creates an inclusive space for restoration action and participation within the local community, Microsoft datacenter employees, and the wider research community. This approach aims to restore the land while fostering participants' shared sense of stewardship.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: The team used optimal mechanical techniques to remove A. altissima and will also incorporate soil carbon amendments to suppress the spread of this invasive species. By incorporating these techniques and using previously tested seed mixtures and seed balls containing over 20 native species, the project aims to restore the native plant community and reverse the ecological degradation present at the site. The seed ball, a cutting-edge restoration technology, is composed of fertile soil, red clay, and biochar nutrients designed to improve germination and support the establishment of restored native plants.
4. Seeks the Highest Level of Ecosystem Recovery Possible: The project anticipates substantial improvements in biodiversity. Key metrics for evaluation include the reduction in the abundance of A. altissima, increased diversity within native plant communities, and improvements in ecosystem functions, such as heightened productivity, optimized soil carbon-nitrogen (C-N) dynamics, and elevated levels of organic matter derived from plant residues. These variables will be compared to nearby ecosystems with high integrity‎.
5. Gains Cumulative Value at Large Scales: By removing the target invasive species and restoring native biodiversity, this project aims to restore ecosystem functions and services within the Umyeonsan Mountain ecosystem for the long term. This work will benefit the community and the environment for generations to come.

By implementing SER standards, the Umyeonsan Mountain project is poised to deliver a comprehensive, impactful, and culturally significant ecological restoration project. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and standards-based practices, this project is fostering a landscape of learning, knowledge-sharing, and community stewardship.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Plant Ecology Research Team and collaborative experts at Andong National University. Learn more here.

Catawba Lands Conservancy (CLC), a non-profit land trust in North Carolina's Southern Piedmont region, is leading a habitat restoration project within Mountain Creek Park in Catawba County. The goal of this project is to restore an 80-acre section of the 600-acre park by addressing erosion as well as the spread of invasive plant species over the course of three years. The project is funded in part by SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team with additional support from the North Carolina Land and Water Fund.

Addressing Ecological Challenges

The Mountain Creek Park Habitat Restoration project seeks to address two key ecological issues: soil erosion and invasive plant species. Significant bank erosion has accelerated stormwater runoff into Lake Norman. This erosion not only washes away soil nutrients but also degrades water quality and aquatic habitats. To address this, CLC began restoration efforts in the summer of 2023 by reseeding eroded banks with native grasses.

The spread of invasive species—including wisteria (Wisteria sinensis), tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), and Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense)—poses another major challenge. These species compete with native plants, reducing biodiversity and depriving native birds, pollinators, and other wildlife of essential habitat and food sources. CLC has implemented a multi-faceted approach to manage these invasive plants, which involves:

1. Removal of Invasive Species: CLC systematically removes dense growths of invasive species in collaboration with Native Roots, LLC, minimizing pesticide use.
2. Targeted Herbicide Application: Mature invasive plants are treated with herbicides applied directly to stumps, while smaller plants are treated using a foliar method.
3. Planting of Native Species: After removal, native trees, shrubs, and plants such as Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), Possumhaw Holly (Ilex decidua), Spicebush (Lindera benzoin), and Arrowwood Viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) are introduced to stabilize soil and prevent invasive regrowth.

Native plantings improve water quality in Lake Norman by stabilizing the soil, reducing runoff, and forming natural barriers. They also foster biodiversity, supporting native animals, like the marbled salamander (Ambystoma opacum), southern two-lined salamander (Eurycea cirrigera), and chuck-will’s-widow (Antrostomus carolinensis) as well as pollinators. Vital pollinator species have declined due to the absence of native plants in the region.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

The success of the Mountain Creek Park project is underscored by strong community collaboration and educational outreach. CLC works with Catawba County Parks and Recreation, to implement the project, coordinate volunteers, and educate the public. Volunteer opportunities, such as a dedicated volunteer day with Microsoft, along with educational programs and signage, aim to teach over 1,000 people about the importance of restoration and inspire stewardship.

Project Outcomes and Benefits

The restoration at Mountain Creek Park aims to deliver multiple environmental and community benefits:

1. Improved Water Quality and Aquatic Habitat: Erosion control and native plantings reduce sedimentation, which improves water quality and supports aquatic life in Lake Norman.
2. Increased Biodiversity: The replacement of invasives with native species creates habitats for wildlife and enhances ecological diversity.
3. Enhanced Trail Aesthetics and Safety: Clearing invasive plants and shrubs opens lines-of-site and views along trails, enhancing scenery, accessibility, and visibility.
4. Community Engagement and Education: Volunteer events and educational programs deepen community connections and enrich park spaces for residents‎.

Alignment with SER Standards

This restoration initiative aligns with the principles outlined in SER standards by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: The project leverages the professional expertise of CLC and Catawba County Parks and Recreation, alongside the invaluable support of volunteers.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: Community restoration events and volunteer opportunities, including a dedicated volunteer day with Microsoft, ensure the inclusion and participation of diverse community members.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: Through the removal of invasive species, the planting of native trees and shrubs, and the seeding of native grasses and forbs, the project actively addresses the root causes of ecological degradation.
4. Seeks the Highest Level of Ecosystem Recovery Possible: The project prioritizes the promotion of native habitats to support a diverse array of flora and fauna, ultimately contributing to increased biodiversity‎.
5. Gains Cumulative Value at Large Scales: By restoring 80 acres within the broader Catawba County, the project contributes to the larger health of the Lake Norman watershed.

The Mountain Creek Park Habitat Restoration project illustrates how community engagement, collaborative partnerships, and standards-based restoration can create resilient ecosystems, and contribute positively to the environment and local community.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Catawba Lands Conservancy (CLC). Learn more here.

Dans le bassin versant de la prise d'eau de la rivière Saint-Charles de la Ville de Québec (Québec, Canada), l'équipe d'Agiro restaure un ancien dépotoir de matériaux secs d'une superficie de 1,8 ha. Ce site dégradé se trouve au pied du Mont-Brillant, au sein d'une propriété municipale de plus de 155 ha désignée pour devenir une réserve naturelle. Le Mont-Brillant englobe des forêts matures, des zones riveraines, des milieux humides et environ 5 km de sentiers utilisés par les citoyens, à pied ou en véhicules hors route .

Ce projet reçoit des fonds du programme de restauration basée sur les normes de la SER, en collaboration avec le programme de durabilité environnementale communautaire de Microsoft. Agiro mène le projet en partenariat avec la Ville de Québec qui, en tant que propriétaire du lot, joue un rôle crucial dans la facilitation des activités du projet. La population locale a également contribué au projet à travers différentes activités. La collaboration de l'ensemble de ces parties prenantes permet la prise en compte de différentes expertises et perspectives, garantissant ainsi l'efficacité et la pérennité du projet.

Objectifs

L'objectif principal du projet est de restaurer l'intégrité écologique de l'ancien dépôt de matériaux sec en se basant sur les écosystèmes naturellement présents dans la région et en y impliquant la communauté. Une attention particulière est portée sur la régénération du sol afin qu'il puisse soutenir la croissance d'espèces végétales indigènes. L'amélioration d'habitats fauniques représentatifs des milieux naturels environnants est également au cœur des activités. Il vise aussi à recréer différents stades de succession écologique à l'aide d'au moins 15 espèces d'arbres et arbustes indigènes, tout en contrôlant les plantes exotiques envahissantes colonisant le site au moyen de stratégies ciblées. Finalement, Agiro souhaite sensibiliser et informer la communauté sur la pertinence du projet afin que ses impacts soient durables.

Défis et approche

Le site du projet, un ancien dépotoir de matériaux secs dont l'usage a cessé en 2012, présente plusieurs défis. Par exemple, la compaction et la mauvaise qualité du sol, la présence d'espèces exotiques envahissantes et le manque de complexité au niveau de la topographie doivent être pris en compte à travers des méthodes de restauration adaptées. L'approche globale comprend les éléments suivants‎ :

• Régénération du sol: Agiro a consulté des agronomes spécialisés afin de les guider dans la restauration du sol. Leurs recommandations ont permis de diviser l'approche de restauration en fonction de la qualité du sol indigène. Dans les zones suffisamment meubles et riches en nutriments, la plantation directe de végétaux a été privilégiée. En revanche, dans les secteurs plus compacts et pauvres, de la terre végétale a été importée. Du compost, des mycorhizes et du paillis ont été utilisés pour améliorer le sol sur l'entièreté du site.
• Diversité des habitats fauniques et floristiques: Dix îlots de formes et de superficies variées ont été aménagés pour diversifier la topographie. Des écosystèmes de référence, typiques de la région et correspondant à différents stades de succession écologique, ont été choisis en fonction des conditions spécifiques de chaque îlot. Les associations végétales choisies comprennent des prairies, des arbustaies ainsi que des peuplements forestiers à dominance de feuillus ou de résineux. Pour enrichir les habitats fauniques, plusieurs espèces ou groupes taxonomiques ont été sélectionnés. Ainsi, des végétaux appréciés par la faune locale ont été choisis, notamment pour attirer les oiseaux frugivores, la gélinotte huppée, le cerf de Virginie, l'orignal et les pollinisateurs. Des abris fauniques pour attirer les petits mammifères et les couleuvres ont été construits à partir de matériaux naturels retrouvés dans les environs.
• Gestion des espèces envahissantes: Les plantes exotiques envahissantes constituant une menace sérieuse pour la biodiversité, des mesures de contrôle et de suivi ont été mises en place. Pour lutter contre la renouée du Japon, le roseau commun ou encore l'égopode podagraire, des toiles imperméables ont été installées, une campagne d'arrachage et de fauchage manuel ciblée a été initiée, et des barrières végétales ont été plantées.
• Engagement communautaire et sensibilisation: Au début du projet, des membres de la communauté supervisés par des spécialistes ont réalisé des inventaires fauniques et floristiques sous la forme d'un bioblitz. Cet évènement de science citoyenne a fourni des données essentielles sur les habitats à prioriser dans le cadre des activités de restauration, tout en sensibilisant les participants à la grande valeur écologique du site. Des entrevues informelles ont également eu lieu avec les résidents du secteur afin de les informer du projet et de faire valoir sa pertinence. Plusieurs employés de Microsoft ont participé bénévolement à la plantation de végétaux. La Ville de Québec a aussi contribué au projet en fournissant gratuitement le paillis. Finalement, un panneau de sensibilisation, valorisant le projet de restauration, sera installé à l'entrée du site pour informer les visiteurs.

Résultats et impacts attendus

Le projet de restauration vise à accélérer le rétablissement de communautés végétales représentatives de la région, ce qui améliorera l'intégrité écologique et la résilience du site. La réintroduction de plantes indigènes et la création d'habitats attirants augmenteront la diversité des plantes et des animaux. La régénération du sol soutiendra davantage l'établissement et la croissance de ces espèces indigènes. Finalement, 580 arbres et arbustes répartis parmi 24 espèces ont été plantés, en plus de l'ensemencement d'une variété de vivaces.

Le projet implique activement la communauté en incluant de la sensibilisation environnementale à travers différentes activités. Par exemple, le bioblitz a permis d'identifier plus de 160 espèces de plantes, 9 espèces d'amphibiens et près de 50 espèces d'oiseaux. De plus, près de 100 végétaux ont été plantés par des bénévoles. Ces activités permettent le développement d'un sentiment d'appartenance et une utilisation responsable du Mont-Brillant par ses visiteurs.

Au cours de la période de suivi, il est attendu que le site progresse vers un écosystème indigène ayant la capacité de se rétablir avec une intervention minimale. Une amélioration de la biodiversité, une réduction de la fragmentation de l'habitat et une amélioration des fonctions écologiques sont également anticipées. Le résultat attendu à long terme est l'émergence d'un site résilient en cours de succession naturelle et capable de s'adapter aux changements climatiques, grâce à une diversité végétale accrue et une fragmentation de l'habitat considérablement réduite. Le site restauré fournira de nouvelles niches pour la faune, que ce soit pour l'abri, la reproduction ou l'alimentation. Les espèces indigènes devraient dominer et les espèces envahissantes seront bien contrôlées .

Application des normes internationales de la SER

Dans le cadre de la restauration de l'ancien dépotoir de matériaux secs et de la mise en réserve naturelle du secteur du Mont-Brillant, l'application des normes de la SER soutient Agiro et la Ville de Québec dans l'atteinte des objectifs de ce projet. La restauration écologique fondée sur des standards reconnus joue un rôle essentiel dans la prise en compte des dynamiques complexes des écosystèmes, dans l'harmonisation des usages pratiqués en milieux naturels, dans la résolution des défis et dans l'optimisation des stratégies de conception et de mise en œuvre.

Cette initiative de restauration s'aligne sur les principes énoncés dans les normes de la SER en‎:

1. Intégrant et en utilisant des connaissances et des capacités techniques diverses et pertinentes, y compris les connaissances locales. Des experts ont effectué des analyses détaillées pour guider les activités de restauration des sols. Un bioblitz a impliqué la communauté locale et des spécialistes en inventaire écologiques, contribuant ainsi à l'obtention de données de base complètes.
2. Favorisant l'inclusion et la participation des divers membres de la communauté. Le projet encourage la participation des employés de Microsoft, des étudiants, et des membres de la communauté locale. Des activités telles que le bioblitz offrent des occasions aux divers groupes de contribuer aux efforts de restauration et de développer un sentiment d'appartenance envers le projet. Des résidents ont été rencontrés afin d'en faire des alliés face à la préservation du site. Les membres de la communauté ont été impliqués dans la plantation et d'autres participent à la surveillance du site, augmentant la durabilité du projet à long terme‎.
3. Garantissant la pérennité du projet grâce à la surveillance et à l'évaluation. Le suivi du projet sera crucial pour maintenir la trajectoire de rétablissement écologique. Une surveillance régulière pendant et au-delà de la mise en œuvre garantira que le site progresse vers des états stables et durables. Le projet contribuera également à renforcer la connectivité des habitats dans la région en restaurant des couloirs écologiques, améliorant ainsi la résilience de l'écosystème‎.
4. Augmentant ou préservant la biodiversité retrouvée sur le site restauré. Les plantes exotiques envahissantes ont été ciblées par des mesures de contrôle et de suivi, des espèces indigènes ont été plantées et une topographie plus complexe et variée a été mise en place. La régénération du sol et la création d'habitats fauniques supporteront une plus grande variété de plantes et d'animaux, ce qui contribuera à restaurer l'écosystème et sa résilience‎.
5. Ciblant l'atteinte des plus grands gains possible au bénéfice de l'environnement, du bien-être humain et de l'équité sociale pour la communauté‎. Le projet promeut l'accès à des milieux naturels par l'intermédiaire d'activités récréatives durables ainsi que l'éducation environnementale et la responsabilisation de la communauté.

Ce projet de restauration représente un effort global pour restaurer un site dégradé, guidé par les Normes internationales de la SER pour la pratique de la restauration écologique. En gérant les espèces envahissantes et en améliorant la complexité des habitats, le projet vise à rétablir l'intégrité écologique et à soutenir la biodiversité. L'implication de la communauté et l'éducation du public sont des composantes essentielles, assurant la durabilité à long terme et favorisant un lien entre les individus et l'écosystème restauré .

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with AGIRO. Learn more here.

In the Saint-Charles River watershed, where Quebec City gets its drinking water, Agiro is restoring a former 1.8-hectare construction waste disposal site. The project site is located at the foot of Mont-Brillant, within a municipal property of over 155 hectares designated to become a nature reserve. Mont-Brillant encompasses mature forests, riparian zones, wetlands, and approximately 5 km of trails used by the community, both on foot and in off-road vehicles.

This project received funding from The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) Standards-based Restoration in Action program, in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team. Agiro leads the project in partnership with Quebec City (Ville de Québec), which, as the owner of the Mont-Brillant lot, plays a crucial role in facilitating project activities. The local community is actively contributing to the project through various activities including a bioblitz event—a community driven ecological survey conducted before project implementation. This multi-faceted collaboration ensures that the project incorporates diverse perspectives and expertise, enhancing its overall effectiveness and sustainability.

Goals and Objectives

By using natural ecosystems in the region as a base, the project seeks to restore the ecological integrity of the former disposal site. A special focus is placed on soil regeneration in order to support the growth of native plants. The aim is to recreate different stages of ecological succession using 15 different native trees and shrubs, and manage and reduce invasive non-native plant species through targeted strategies. The project design also focuses on making habitat improvements representative of the surrounding natural environments to support native wildlife in the area. Finally, Agiro is designing educational campaigns to inform visitors about the project and to raise awareness about its relevance and future environmental benefits.

Challenges and Approach

The project site, a former construction waste disposal site active until 2012, presents several challenges. The project will address challenges such as soil compaction, invasive species, and lack of topographical complexity through targeted restoration techniques and adaptive management. The overall approach includes the following components:‎

• Soil regeneration: Agiro worked closely with specialized agronomists to develop a tailored soil restoration strategy. Their expert recommendations enabled the team to segment the restoration approach according to the native soil's condition. In areas where the soil was loose and nutrient-rich, direct planting of vegetation was prioritized. In more compact and nutrient-poor sections, topsoil was imported. To enhance soil quality throughout the site, compost, mycorrhizae, and mulch were applied universally.
• Diversity of Wildlife and Plant Habitats: To enhance the diversity of wildlife and plant habitats, ten islands of various shapes and sizes were created to introduce topographical variety. Reference ecosystems typical of the region, representing different stages of ecological succession, were selected based on each island’s unique conditions. The chosen plant communities included meadows, shrublands, and forests dominated by deciduous or coniferous trees. To enrich wildlife habitats, species and taxonomic groups were carefully selected, focusing on plants that attract local fauna such as frugivorous birds, ruffed grouse, white-tailed deer, moose, and pollinators. Additionally, shelters for small mammals and snakes were constructed using natural materials sourced from the surroundings.
• Management of Invasive Species: Recognizing the serious threat invasive exotic plants pose to biodiversity, control and monitoring measures were put in place. To manage species like Japanese knotweed, common reed, and goutweed, impermeable tarps were deployed, a targeted manual pulling and mowing campaign was launched, and vegetative barriers were planted.
• Community Engagement and Awareness: At the start of the project, community members, under the guidance of specialists, participated in wildlife and plant inventories through a bioblitz event. This citizen science initiative provided essential data to help prioritize restoration activities while raising awareness about the site's ecological importance. Informal interviews with local residents were also conducted to inform them about the project and demonstrate its relevance. Several Microsoft employees volunteered to help plant vegetation, and Quebec City contributed by providing mulch free of charge. Finally, signage on the restoration project is set to be installed at the site entrance to inform visitor.

Expected Outcomes and Impacts

The restoration project aims to establish a recovery trajectory for the site, improving its ecological integrity and resilience. Reintroducing native plants and enhancing habitat quality and quantity will increase plant and animal diversity. Improved soil conditions will further support the establishment and growth of these native species. To date, a total of 580 trees and shrubs, spread across 24 species, have been planted, in addition to seeding a variety of perennials.

The project actively engages the community by promoting environmental awareness through various activities. For instance, the bioblitz helped identify over 160 plant species, 9 amphibian species, and nearly 50 bird species. Additionally, volunteers planted close to 100 plants. These activities foster a sense of belonging and encourage responsible stewardship of Mont-Brillant among its visitors.

Throughout the monitoring period, project planners expect the site to progress towards an appropriate native ecosystem capable of further recovery with minimal intervention. They anticipate improved biodiversity, reduced habitat fragmentation, and enhanced ecological functions. The expected long-term outcome is a resilient site undergoing natural succession and capable of adapting to climate change, driven by increased plant diversity and significantly reduced habitat fragmentation. The restored site will provide new niches for wildlife to use for shelter, reproduction, or feeding. Native species are expected to dominate the area, with invasive species under control.

Applying SER's International Standards

Employing SER’s standards to restore this former landfill site in Quebec City as part of the Mont-Brilliant nature reserve improves Agiro’s, and the City of Quebec’s chance of meeting its project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration plays a pivotal role in addressing the intricate dynamics of ecosystems, managing trade-offs in land use, tackling challenges, and optimizing the effectiveness of design and implementation strategies. This restoration initiative aligns with the principles outlined in SER standards by: 

1. Integrating and using diverse and relevant technical knowledge and capabilities, including local knowledge. Experts conducted detailed analyses to guide soil restoration activities. A bioblitz involved the local community and ecological inventory specialists, thus contributing to obtaining comprehensive baseline data.
2. Promoting inclusion and participation of diverse community members. The project encourages participation from Microsoft employees, students, and local community members. Activities like the bioblitz offer opportunities to various groups to contribute to the restoration efforts and become stewards of the site. Additionally, residents were engaged to become allies in preserving the site. Some community members participated in planting efforts, while others contributed to site monitoring, helping to ensure the project’s long-term sustainability.
3. Identifying and mitigating direct and indirect causes of degradation by improving soil conditions, reducing habitat fragmentation, and promoting sustainable recreational use. Restoration activities are designed to mitigate the documented degradation and disturbance.
4. Increasing the integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity within the restoration area by removing invasive herbaceous plants, planting native species, and creating complex topographies and vegetation strata.  Improving soil conditions and creating diverse habitats will support a wider variety of plant and animal species, thus helping restore the ecosystem and its resiliency‎.
5. Aiming to achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible for environmental benefits, human well-being, and social equity for the community by providing access to green spaces and fostering environmental education and community empowerment.

This restoration project represents a comprehensive effort to restore a degraded site, guided by SER's International Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration. By addressing soil contamination, managing invasive species, and enhancing habitat complexity, the project aims to restore ecological integrity and support biodiversity. Community involvement and public education are integral components, ensuring long-term sustainability and fostering a connection between people and the restored ecosystem.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Agrio. Learn more here.

The Stream + Wetlands Foundation (S+W) was established in 1992 and is based in Lancaster, Ohio. Over the past 30+ years, S+W has protected, enhanced, and restored more than 4,000 acres of wetlands, riparian corridors, upland buffer habitat, and over 30 miles of stream channels, as well as planted millions of native trees and shrubs. S+W approached The Dawes Arboretum with an opportunity to collaborate on a wetland restoration project on its property.

Founded in 1929, The Arboretum protects over 2,000 acres of conserved land and has been dedicated to enriching lives through the conservation of trees, nature, and history for nearly a century. The Dawes Arboretum was eager to serve as the long-term steward for the restored wetland habitat. The wetland restoration project received funding through SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team.

Restoring Wetland Hydrology and Native Plant Communities

Among a matrix of habitats, The Dawes Arboretum is home to the Rolling Hills Meadow, a formerly degraded agricultural field that was planted with native prairie species in 2020. While this was a positive step towards ecological restoration of the wetland prairie, the site continues to be negatively impacted by a subsurface tile drain, a relic of its conversion to agricultural use. The drainage system has contributed to soil erosion and continues to disrupt the site’s natural hydrology, preventing water from collecting within the convergent slopes in the lowland valley.

To address the site's degradation and restore its ecological integrity, S+W will collaborate with The Dawes Arboretum to implement a comprehensive restoration plan that includes:

• Disabling the drain tile
• Creating small wetland pools
• Removing invasive vegetation
• Re-establishing native plant species

The project will create a shallow emergent marsh plant community that transitions to a fringe of scrub-shrub wetland. S+W will use a custom blend of native perennial and annual species, provided by The Arboretum, to enhance the habitat. With a variety of hydrologic preferences, species planted will include aquatics, sedges, rushes, grasses, forbes, woody trees and flowering shrubs naturally found in this region of Ohio.

The restoration will increase biological richness of both flora and fauna in need of conservation. To support local genotype diversity, S+W will prioritize planting sustainably harvested native plant material and seeds sourced directly from The Arboretum's accredited seed bank and native plant nursery. Examples of showy, colorful species to be featured in the landscape include:

• Hibiscus moscheutos (swamp rose mallow)
• Cephalanthus occidentalis (buttonbush)
• Lobelia cardinalis (cardinal flower)
• Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed)
• Quercus palustris (pin oak)
• Pontederia cordata (pickerelweed)

In order from left to right: Hibiscus moscheutos (swamp rose mallow), Cephalanthus occidentalis (buttonbush), Lobelia cardinalis (cardinal flower), Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed), Quercus palustris (pin oak), Pontederia cordata (pickerelweed).

Conservation at S+W and The Dawes Arboretum

S+W has a long history of partnering with local conservation organizations on restoration projects. Every project completed by S+W is donated to a qualified long-term steward, such as a local or county park district or the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), that will continue to protect and manage the restored aquatic resources. These properties are often opened to the public for passive recreation and enjoyment. The Arboretum is a natural fit for this project as it builds upon their long-standing commitment to conservation. Reflected in the original deed of trust, The Arboretum has decades of research dedicated to habitat restoration, invasive plant control, and plant conservation science .

The Arboretum actively works to control the spread of invasive species and protect the biodiversity of native flora and fauna. Due to the past revegetation efforts in 2020, the restored prairie surrounding the future wetland is now home to state threatened species, such as Eryngium yuccifolium (rattlesnake master), Helianthus mollis (ashy sunflower), and a variety of Liatris sp. (blazing stars).

In order from left to right: Eryngium yuccifolium (rattlesnake master), Helianthus mollis (ashy sunflower), and a variety of Liatris sp. (blazing stars).

Each year, successful ecological restoration projects are evaluated through adaptive management approaches and biological monitoring. To increase the health and sustainability of this restoration project, S+W biologists and dedicated Arboretum staff will partner with the Ohio Invasive Plants Council to research and implement best management practices for invasive plant removal and share the outcomes with the community.

Beyond this project, S+W and The Arboretum teams are deeply invested in plant conservation science focused on protecting rare Ohio plants and their habitats, including state- and federally-listed species. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing is a critical component of this unique work. The team is active in numerous conservation networks, including SER, Ecological Restoration Alliance, the Organization of Biological Field Stations, and the American Public Gardens Association. Both organizations also maintain a strong partnership with state natural resource agencies such as the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves at the ODNR.

To further their conservation goals, The Dawes Arboretum has significantly expanded their capacity to propagate and grow native plants, bolstering genetic diversity while preserving local populations. They exchange sustainably collected seeds of wild-origin plants with other botanical research institutions globally through the Index Seminum program. Finally, The Arboretum contributes to a broader understanding of plant diversity by sharing plant collection data with organizations like the North America-China Plant Exploration Consortium (NACPEC), Botanic Garden Conservation International’s database (PlantSearch), Index Herbariorum, and the ARS North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station.

Community Engagement in Restoration Efforts

Recognizing the importance of community engagement, S+W will collaborate with The Dawes Arboretum to organize volunteer events for restoration activities, including seeding, planting, and installing aquatic plants. These events will be open to both Microsoft employees and members of the public, fostering a sense of stewardship and promoting awareness about the importance of wetland restoration.

The Arboretum offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups to contribute to the health and preservation of its diverse habitats. Volunteers can participate in tasks such as land restoration, wildlife monitoring, nursery care, garden maintenance, and invasive plant removal among a myriad of other opportunities. The Arboretum hosts monthly Community Volunteer Days from February to October, providing a chance for hands-on learning and support of The Arboretum's landscapes and habitats. These events emphasize education and collaboration, allowing community members to work alongside staff and gain a deeper understanding of conservation practices.

S+W’s mission includes the commitment to “fund scientific research and study of stream and wetland ecosystems, related upland buffers and habitat for endangered species in the United States.” To support this mission, S+W has donated over $1 million to university-level research projects and scholarships for students pursuing environmental careers. S+W also fosters community outreach and education by developing programs and materials about the environmental benefits of wetlands and importance of stream and wetland creation, restoration, and protection. For this specific project, S+W is going beyond the allocated grant funds to support the volunteer event days. They will also donate permanent educational signage that will be installed near the project and accessible to the many Arboretum visitors.

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

This project aligns with the principles outlined in SER standards by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: Both S+W and The Dawes Arboretum employ local technical experts, scientists, and engineers with extensive knowledge of Ohio's natural habitats. S+W will also seek input from Talon Silverhorn, a member of the Eastern Shawnee tribe and cultural programs manager at the ODNR, to incorporate Indigenous perspectives.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: S+W will actively work to involve underserved groups in the project by collaborating with The Dawes Arboretum to communicate volunteer opportunities to those communities. Microsoft datacenter employees will also have the opportunity to participate in volunteer events.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: The project aims to restore the area through several key steps. First, it will disable the subsurface tile drain, a remnant from when the land was used for agriculture. This action will address past degradation and allow for the creation of wetland pools. The project will also focus on removing invasive species and re-establishing native plant communities. The Arboretum will monitor the area's progress as the soil structure recovers, using initial soil surveys conducted before restoration as a baseline for comparison.
4. Enhancing Biodiversity: By restoring wetland hydrology and native plant communities, the project will significantly increase vegetative and wildlife species richness. The Arboretum will continue performing targeted biological inventories over time to measure restoration success and ecosystem recovery.
5. Achieving Net Gain for Environmental Benefits and Social Equity: S+W is committed to maximizing the grant's impact by financing the labor and material expenses for design, permitting, and monitoring. The Dawes Arboretum is planning to integrate the restored wetland into its existing trail system and install educational signage, enhancing the community's access to and understanding of the restored ecosystem.

By implementing SER standards, the Rolling Hills Meadow Wetland Restoration project embodies a comprehensive, collaborative approach to ecological restoration, promising significant benefits for the ecosystem and the community.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Stream + Wetlands Foundation and The Dawes Arboretum. Learn more here.

The Skjoldungernes Land National Park system in Denmark covers an area of 170 square kilometers and features unique landscapes formed during the ice age, including hills, valleys, cliffs, and fjords. Located in this park system is Boserup Forest, a protected old-growth deciduous forest stretching along the shoreline of the Roskilde Fjord. Within the southwestern part of Boserup Forest, is a 4.2 hectare area that has been preserved for 200 years as an ash coppice forest and managed using coppicing, a traditional technique of cutting specific tree species close to the ground to encourage regrowth.

The Expansion of an Old Coppice Forest project aims to revitalize this ancient Danish ecological feature. It is a collaborative initiative involving the Boserup Coppice Guild, the Danish Nature Agency, and National Park Skjoldungernes Land. Together, they plan to expand and restore Boserup Forest using traditional forest management practices. The existing 4.2 hectare area will serve as an appropriate reference ecosystem to help guide the expansion and restoration of Boserup Forest to 10 hectares in total. This project received funding through SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team.

Embracing the Legacy of Coppice Forests

As explained in SER's International Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration (see principle 3, subsection on traditional cultural ecosystems), coppiced woodlands are considered to be traditional cultural ecosystems, also known as semi-natural ecosystems within the European Union. As coppicing was abandoned, these forest ecosystems changed significantly, often resulting in significant reductions in native biodiversity. This species-rich forest, with calcium-rich soil, is home to an array of native trees, flowers, fungi, butterflies, and reptiles that depend on the habitat formed in a coppiced forest.

The traditional technique of coppicing is a method deeply rooted in Danish forest management practices. The technique uses the regenerative capacity of several tree species to help foster a diverse ecosystem. It involves cutting certain tree species close to the ground, prompting vigorous regrowth from the stump or root system.

By periodically cutting trees like oak or hazel, coppicing encourages rapid and straight regrowth, enhancing habitats for various flora and fauna species and promoting biodiversity within woodland areas. It allows for continuous tree renewal without clear-cutting, preserving cultural heritage and environmental conservation. However, Boserup Forest's current ecosystem lacks several native tree and shrub species essential for its ecological richness and expansion.

Increasing biodiversity and forest size

To expand the existing forest and increase native biodiversity, this project will reintroduce at least eight region-specific tree and shrub species typical of Eastern Danish coppice forests. Native tree and shrubs will be locally sourced or climate-appropriate, and include: Oak (Quercus sp.), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Hazel (Corylus avellana), Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), Field Maple (Acer campestre), Pedunculated Oak (Quercus robur), Common Alder (Alnus glutinosa) and Small-leaved Lime (Tilia cordata).

The on-the-ground ecological restoration work involves the planting and sowing of native tree species while controlling invasive tree species like sycamore, Norway spruce, sitka spruce, and beech through felling. These ecological restoration efforts will benefit various native trees, shrubs, light-demanding flowering plants, small birds, and insects. Because of their unique ecosystem, coppice forests in Denmark can provide habitat for several rare butterfly species, including the Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia), the White-letter Hairstreak (Satyrium w-album), the Lesser Purple Emperor (Apatura ilia), and the Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) .

Community Engagement for Sustainable Conservation

The decentralized management of Boserup Forest facilitates local community involvement in hands-on restoration and stewardship efforts. This engagement is crucial for preserving the area's natural environment, landscapes, and cultural heritage. Key stakeholders actively engaged in restoring the forest include the Danish Nature Agency, Boserup Coppice Guild, Boserupgaard Nature School, volunteers, and students. Hands on ecological restoration of this traditional cultural ecosystem provides experiential learning opportunities, fostering environmental stewardship, especially among younger generations.

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

Employing SER’s standards for the The Expansion of an Old Coppice Forest project enhances the Boserup Coppice Guild, the Danish Nature Agency, and National Park Skjoldungernes Land’s chance of meeting its project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration plays a pivotal role in addressing the intricate dynamics of ecosystems, managing trade-offs in land use, tackling challenges, and optimizing the effectiveness of design and implementation strategies. This restoration initiative aligns with the principles outlined in SER standards by:

1. Integrating and utilizing diverse and relevant knowledge and technical capacity by incorporating professional expertise from the Danish Nature Agency and expertise from the Boserup Coppice Guild, as well as highly motivated and skilled local volunteers.
2. Promoting inclusion and participation of diverse community members through engagement with the Boserup Coppice Guild network, the Boserupgaard Nature School, and volunteers from Microsoft datacenter, among others. These partnerships are facilitated through community restoration events, workshops, and training sessions.
3. Identifying and mitigating causes of degradation by seeking the expert guidance of experienced foresters from the Danish Nature Agency. The project will reduce the causes of degradation by removing invasive tree species, and planting and sowing native tree and shrub species.
4. Increasing the integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity within the restoration area by focusing on preserving and restoring biodiversity in Boserup Forest and increasing the surface area of the coppice forest habitat that fosters biodiversity.
5. Aiming to achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible for environmental benefits, human well-being, and social equity for the community, through engaging community volunteers, using the 4.2 hectare preserved ash coppice forest ecosystem as the appropriate reference model, and applying traditional management practices to restore and expand this cultural ecosystem.

The Expansion of an Old Coppice Forest project highlights the important connection between heritage preservation, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement. It serves as an example for restoring coppice forest ecosystems and biodiversity they support while ensuring their sustainability and longevity for future generations .

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with National Park Skjoldungernes Land alongside the Boserup Coppice Guild and the Danish Nature Agency. Learn more here.

 

Despite the BNI site’s highly urbanized setting and the landscape’s history of damage, neglect and degradation, it still hosts a mob of Eastern Grey Kangaroos and diverse other wildlife and is a culturally significant site for the Dharug community. As Dharug artist Leanne Tobin’s woven installation reminds us, the site always was, always will be Dharug Nura (photo credit: Dharug Strategic Management Group).

Led by the Dharug Strategic Management Group (DSMG), this newly funded project marks a crucial step toward cultural and ecological restoration of the heritage-listed Blacktown Native Institute (BNI) site in Western Sydney, New South Wales (NSW). This site holds profound historical significance as the first land to be returned to Dharug care since the colonial era. The DSMG was established specifically to oversee the return of the BNI site into Dharug ownership and custodianship on behalf of the Dharug people in 2018. 

Once a residential school for young Aboriginal and Maori children, BNI is one of the first known sites where children were removed from their families and forcibly institutionalised – a practice that continued until the 1970s and later to become known as the ‘Stolen Generations’. The site played a key role in the history of colonial assimilation policies and race relations in Australia. The site is valued as a landmark in the history of cross-cultural engagement in Australia.

Challenges and Approach

Before colonisation the site would have been part of a larger area now called the Cumberland Plains Woodland and greater floodplain of Eastern Creek. Despite its historical and cultural value, the BNI site is still part of the endangered Cumberland Plains ecological communities and was returned to Dharug in a damaged and degraded state. Past decades of neglect have adversely impacted the site's overall health and resilience, and the DSMG have developed a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan that includes ecological restoration, to protect and restore this area and to rebuild cultural and ecological relationships. 

Funding from SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action program, in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team, will support implementation of the ecological restoration components of the plan.

The BNI site has undergone a number of disturbance activities including being used as a dairy farm for many decades of the twentieth century. By the early 1970s vegetation was cleared, and the chain of ponds creek running through the site was degraded, eroded and realigned. (photo credit: Blacktown Memories file 014510 © Jack Brook, used with permission Blacktown City Library).

A Holistic Ecological and Cultural Restoration Approach

Restoration of Cumberland Plain riparian, woodland, and grassland ecological communities is currently facing practical and technical challenges. These challenges are further complicated by past and present ignorance, racism, and a disregard for Dharug cultural knowledge, values, wisdom, protocols, and leadership in restoration. Rapid residential, commercial, and industrial development also poses serious environmental implications for Dharug Nura (Country).

To address these challenges, this ground-breaking restoration project is bringing together Dharug cultural knowledge and leadership through DSMG with the technical expertise of the project partners: Muru Mittigar, Greening Australia, and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) NSW Conservation and Ecosystem Management students to foster a collaborative, holistic approach to restoration design to care for Dharug Nura (Country).

Prior to intensive residential and industrial development around the site, remnant vegetation on the BNI offered higher levels of biodiversity, but the burden of erosion, clearing and grazing were already evident in the 1960s. (photo credit: Blacktown Memories file 014513 © Jack Brook, used with permission Blacktown City Library).

Tein McDonald from SER will also work with DSMG and partners to provide support and guidance for the project. Tein is the lead author of the original SER International Standards, a lifelong restoration practitioner (credentialed through SER’s Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner Program) and is helping ensure the project meets international Ecological Restoration standards.

DSMG and its partners will conduct trials assessing soil viability, native seed survival, and cultural burning practices. Muru Mittigar, a Dharug not-for-profit organization employing traditional land management practices alongside modern technologies, will manage and maintain the trial areas. Greening Australia (Nindethana) will contribute seeds, plants, and expertise, integrating trials into sustainable on-site programs. Students from TAFE NSW Ryde will monitor the project throughout its phases, assessing species richness and native plant versus weed cover. Finally, Dharug community members and Muru Mittigar will assist with and guide cultural burning requirements during the trial phase and subsequent site management post-restoration.

Project Objectives and Implementation

The project aims to restore the native and endangered Cumberland Plain woodland at the BNI site and develop and demonstrate practical and culturally sensitive methods to achieve the best restoration outcomes across Dharug Nura. The project's broader aim is to cultivate healthy relationships between ecological restoration and cultural heritage through Connection to Country. Demonstrating the effectiveness of Dharug-led cultural and ecological restoration is essential to achieving this goal.

A key objective is implementing the Conservation Management Plan, which recognizes, commemorates, and celebrates the site's Dharug history and heritage, its regional and cultural significance, and as well as its tragic colonial and administrative histories. The Conservation Management Plan recognizes that rebuilding that connection between culture and nature requires investment not just in ecological restoration, but in separately funded, off-grid site facilities, such as toilets, storage, and meeting rooms. These facilities will help encourage and support community engagement and education activities, like site management and monitoring, and ceremonial, educational, and cultural programs.

The BNI is an important place for teaching Dharug culture, history, values and goals. At the Grandmother Tree this group of local teachers and education leaders (right) and Greening Australia staff (left) commits to support the healing of Nura and respect for Dharug culture. (photo credits: Right - Dharug Strategic Management Group 28.05.2021; Left - Dharug Strategic Management Group 02.10.2023).

Community Engagement and Empowerment

Engagement and empowerment of the Dharug Community, local schools, TAFE students, and Blacktown City Council are integral parts of this project. By working with these communities, DSMG will be better able to support project monitoring and management and promote cultural activities on the BNI site. Training Dharug individuals in practical field skills, for example, advances culturally led restoration and fosters ownership and connection to Nura. Community engagement, and building relationships with country, extends beyond the Dharug communities to encompass wider school networks and Microsoft Datacenter employees, fostering a collaborative space for learning and meaningful participation.

The BNI hosts important cultural events (photo credit: Dharug Strategic Management Group 29.05.2021),

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

Employing SER’s standards for this project enhances DSMG’s chance of meeting its project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The Cultural and Ecological Restoration Project at the BNI site project aligns with principles outlined in the SER standards by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: This is a Dharug-led cultural-and-ecological restoration project, including partner organizations that are either Dharug managed (Muru Mittigar) or invested in local Indigenous methodology (Greening Australia and Blacktown City Council).
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: The project creates an inclusive space for culturally sensitive restoration action and participation within the wider Dharug community and with local schools, TAFE students and Microsoft Datacenter employees. This approach aims to restore the land while fostering a shared sense of stewardship among participants.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: DSMG’s aim is to restore native Cumberland Plain herb, shrub and tree layers through ecologically and culturally informed care while managing invasive plant species, aiming to reverse ecological degradation and protect native flora and fauna.
4. Enhancing Biodiversity: The project anticipates substantial improvements in biodiversity, within the symbiotic approach to healing Nura and Culture. Substantial efforts will be made to trigger regeneration of any dormant native seed and reintroduce many missing species to supplement three existing local plant species: Rough-barked Apple trees (Angophora floribunda), Swamp Oak trees (Casuarina glauca) and Spotted Gum trees (Corymbia maculata), as well as the eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus gigantea).
5. Achieving Net Gain for Environmental Benefits and Social Equity: By reconciling historical injustices and addressing systemic inequality through cultural and ecological restoration, the project strives for sustainable social, environmental, and economic well-being. Working with TAFE students and teachers will also build systemic capacity to recognize, respect and support culturally led ecological restoration more widely across Dharug Nura.

By implementing SER standards, the Cultural and Ecological Restoration Project at the BNI Site is poised to deliver a comprehensive, culturally led, and culturally significant ecological restoration project. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and standards-based practices this project is fostering a landscape of healing, resilience, and shared stewardship that connects and blends culture and ecology.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with The Dharug Strategic Management Group (DSMG). Learn more here.

 

A flock of White Storks (Ciconia ciconia) at the project site.

Naturskyddsföreningen i Skåne (Swedish Society for Nature Conservation Skåne) and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening (Skåne Ornithological Association, a regional branch of BirdLife Sweden) are leading a restoration initiative to revive the White Stork population (Ciconia ciconia), once locally extirpated in the 1950s. The "White Stork as an Ambassador for Wetlands" project aims to restore and enhance wetland areas, creating habitat for the White Stork and other native wetland species in southern Sweden.

A White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) in a wetland habitat.

Historical impacts and restoration approach

This standards-based ecological restoration project is taking place approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Lund, a city in the province of Skåne, in the southern tip of Sweden. For centuries, wetlands were drained to create agricultural land, which negatively impacted the White Stork population as well as other native wetland species. The practice of draining wetlands has now stopped, providing the opportunity to assess current wetland conditions and develop a plan to restore wetlands and their ecological services.

Support from SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team, is helping advance these restoration efforts. Naturskyddsföreningen i Skåne and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening are working collaboratively to increase the White Stork population and assess wetland conditions for effective restoration. Their approach integrates local knowledge and expertise from conservation NGOs, research conducted at Lund University, and historical information from local farmers.

Short-term and long-term project objectives

The main goal of the "White Stork as an Ambassador for Wetlands" project is to restore wetland habitats capable of supporting a healthy White Stork population. The project's long-term objective is to improve wetland quality enough to support at least 100 breeding pairs. Research indicates that in areas with high-quality habitat, White Storks produce approximately 40% more fledged young compared to areas with lower habitat quality. Ideally White Storks in this restored habitat will fledge at least two juveniles annually, thus rebuilding a stable population in the area.

A family of White Storks (Ciconia ciconia) in a nesting site.  

A second project objective is to have at least 20% of migrating juvenile storks return to the nesting area as adults to breed. To facilitate this, Naturskyddsföreningen i Skåne and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening will create a minimum of 20 new nesting sites suitable for the storks throughout the project's timeline. Monitoring of nest sites will also take place until 2030.

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the White Stork population and other native wetland species, Naturskyddsföreningen i Skåne and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening will assess the current condition of the wetlands to develop plans for future restoration. As part of the project's broader focus on ecosystem health, the team will produce an updated guide, consistent with the SER Standards, on wetland restoration design, which prioritizes restoration initiatives that benefit both native wetlands species like the White Stork. This holistic approach seeks to ensure wetland restoration priorities are aligned with habitat quality and genetic diversity, ultimately enhancing local biodiversity.

Collaborative Implementation

The "White Stork as an Ambassador for Wetlands” project has garnered diverse support through partnerships with the Skåne county administration, biosphere reserve candidate Storkriket, Nordens Ark, and various other restoration initiatives. Activities range from informing landowners about wetland restoration to donating fish for stork food, reducing bird collision risks with overhead lines, and supporting breeding efforts.

A nest of fledging White Storks (Ciconia ciconia) being banded for tracking purposes. 

To sustain a healthy White Stork population well into the future, this project aims to further expand local awareness and support for wetland restoration. Naturskyddsföreningen i Skåne and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening have already established an outreach initiative on wetland restoration with local landowners in collaboration with the county and three municipalities. Future outreach initiatives are expected to bring in around 2500 visitors to informational events, enhancing community engagement and education.

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

Employing SER’s standards for the “White Stork as an Ambassador for Wetlands” project enhances Naturskyddsföreningen Skåne and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening's chance of meeting its project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration plays a pivotal role in addressing the intricate dynamics of ecosystems, managing trade-offs in land use, tackling challenges, and optimizing the effectiveness of design and implementation strategies. This restoration initiative aligns with the principles outlined in SER standards by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: By integrating insights from local NGOs, university research, and historical farming knowledge, the project ensures a comprehensive approach to wetland restoration. This approach is further strengthened by ongoing development plans that incorporate new scientific knowledge.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: n addition to already having diverse support through partnerships with various organizations and an outreach program with local landowners, the initiative has an established group of 60 dedicated local volunteers providing in-kind support to the project.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: The outreach program is educating landowners about the environmental degradation caused by historical wetland drainage. Additionally, the project plans to evaluate the quality of wetland habitat and create restoration plans aimed at addressing past causes of degradation.
4. Enhancing Biodiversity: Employing an integrated planning approach involving habitat assessments, restoration implementation, multi-year monitoring (enabling adaptive management), and updated guidance, the project's holistic strategy aims to enhance the habitat quality for White Storks. This approach not only contributes to the health of the stork population but also enhances the biodiversity of other native wetland species.
5. Delivering Net Gain for Environmental Benefits and Social Equity: In addition to enhancing biodiversity, the project will offer other benefits such as carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, ecologically-based  tourism, and engagement with volunteers and local farmers and landowners.

By applying standards-based restoration, the "White Stork as an Ambassador for Wetlands" project aims for a comprehensive ecological restoration effort. This restoration initiative is merging diverse expertise, engaging communities, and using standards-based practices to help create a healthy and resilient ecosystem that supports both wildlife and local communities.

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Naturskyddsföreningen i Skåne and Skånes Ornitologiska Förening. Learn more here.

 

Marsh & Linear Pond Spring 2023

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Kahnawà:ke means “the place on the rapids,” a name that came from the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) community's location on the St. Lawrence River. Kahnawa'kehró:non have always been skilled fishers, paddlers, and navigators with the river as their highway. We knew how to read the currents, the wind, and the fishing spots. The riverfront was also the center of the community for many families who lived on its banks. It was a gathering place for families to swim, fish, pick medicine and be grounded in community and nature .

In the 1950’s, 1262 acres of Kahnawà:ke territory was expropriated for the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway. The seaway cut off direct access to the river and caused lasting trauma to the community. The community fought the construction but there were many lies, coercion, confusion, empty promises and forced evictions. Construction of the Seaway was completed in 1959. The separation of the community from the river had dramatic impacts on our traditional practices and way of life. People began to see sustenance fishing as something of the past .

St. Lawrence Seaway excavation in Kahnawà:ke village area

What we know today as the Tekakwitha Island and Bay, were also formed as a by-product of the Seaway construction. Blasted rock and clay fill were dumped into the St. Lawrence River covering and combining existing islands. Over time people began to adapt and use the new artificial area for fishing, paddling, and swimming as it was the last access to the water they had. But in time the long-term environmental issues became apparent.

Around 2008, the Onake Paddling Club noticed that the bay was becoming increasingly shallow and overrun with aquatic plants, to the point where they were no longer able to paddle through certain areas during the summer. They alerted the Kahnawà:ke Environment Protection Office (KEPO) who began studying the environmental issues affecting the island and bay. KEPO discovered that sediment was settling in the bay because of the lack of natural currents from the river to pull it away. On top of this, the nutrients in the sediment were promoting increased aquatic plant growth, locking the system into a positive feedback loop .

"Consultation was a key element of the project and allowed us to incorporate elements that would enhance traditional and recreational activities, strengthening the social and cultural fabric of the community. From these consultations a public beach was incorporated into the project to restore a connection to the river."

Towards Restoration

KEPO’s studies show that the island had poor biodiversity due to the rocky substrate, which made it so that only the hardiest plants could survive. Numerous barriers to wildlife existed, as well as virtually no variation in topography. Working with AECOM, a comprehensive restoration plan for the island and bay was prepared.

The goals of this plan were to improve the water flow in the bay, diversify the habitats for wildlife, and restore degraded shorelines. It also aimed to enhance spaces for community members, including environmentally integrated access points to the bay, rest areas and boat launches. After the preliminary design was complete, KEPO hosted community events to gather feedback, comments, and suggestions on proposed components to be incorporated into the final design.

Consultation was a key element of the project and allowed us to incorporate elements that would enhance traditional and recreational activities, strengthening the social and cultural fabric of the community. From these consultations a public beach was incorporated into the project to restore a connection to the river .

Turtle Nesting Grounds Summer 2023

Two natural zones were created on Tekakwitha Island. The first being a three-acre turtle nesting ground habitat consisting of a marsh, turtle beach, and scrubland where an adapted seed mixture was sown and about 2,000 shrubs and trees were planted in newly placed topsoil. The second natural zone, the marsh and linear pond, is a six-acre wetland complex including a marsh, wet meadow, and shrub swamp surrounded by a diverse terrestrial habitat. In this area we included approximately 10,500 plants, consisting of some 55 species. A deep-water linear pond was excavated in the wetland to ensure permanent water .

Marsh & Linear Pond Summer 2023

To ensure the perennity of these natural zones, the daily fluctuations of the water level were analysed over a period of 58 years to establish the elevation of each type of wetland. Diverse plant species increase the biodiversity of the area and provide opportunities for food, shelter, and nesting for wildlife. In both natural zones we maximized reuse of materials from the construction on site. Boulders were secured into the ground and piled to create hibernacula for the Dekay’s Brown Snake. Trees which had to be removed were anchored into the shores and marshes to make basking logs for turtles. While we are only one-year post-construction, these habitats have already seen an increase in biodiversity with turtles, frogs, deer, and other wildlife using the areas .

Marsh & Linear Pond Spring 2023

Our community-based contractor, RML Landscaping, proposed an innovative technique to dewater sediments in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Because of the amount of space available and the excavation required for the creation of the linear pond and marsh feature, a series of basins were created where the sediment would be mixed with coagulants. Overflow passed though channels where more sediment was captured, before eventually infiltrating into the rock of the island back to the bay. The leftover sediment was then mixed with sand to create topsoil which was reused throughout the project. On-site project management support was provided by GEO Morphix Ltd .

Project Future

Now that the project construction is complete, we are moving into a monitoring and maintenance phase of the project. We will be evaluating how the habitats are being used, whether they are performing to design and what improvements can be made. Additional basking logs or snake hibernacula may be added to the natural areas. The space on Tekakwitha Island has allowed us to undertake other complimentary projects. For example, a bank swallow habitat structure was added to the marsh and linear pond which saw 118 pairs of swallows in the first year. These swallows were banded or tagged and a MOTUS tower was installed to help track their migratory patterns. 

DeKay's Brown Snake

In October of last year, a food forest was planted with the help of community volunteers. The site contains all native plants to the area that reach from the canopy of the trees down to the ground level, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and edible plants. The goals of the food forest are to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, be a source of food, medicine, and a place for Kahnawa’kehró:non to connect and enjoy. Next year we plan to install test plots to grow threatened plant species which can be replanted around the community .

The Tekakwitha Island and Bay Restoration Project is an example of the resilience of our people and environment. We are still healing from the loss of the river due to the Seaway and may never fully restore what was taken but through the collaboration and dedication of the community, we have been able to reclaim this space for ourselves and our relations in the natural world .

In addition to Restoration Stories, SER provides a public directory of restoration projects from around the world. This project directory, hosted on SER's Restoration Resource Center, serves as a valuable resource for restoration practitioners, researchers, educators, students, and the general public. Access the directory here.

 

Main lake at Cyberjaya Lake Gardens

In the heart of Cyberjaya lies a vibrant and vital piece of nature—the Cyberjaya Lake Gardens. This 400-acre park, nestled amidst a landscape once dominated by oil palm plantations, secondary forests, and scrublands, serves as a crucial green area for the surrounding urban city. While the area already boasts various visitor facilities, including an information center, boardwalk, lookout tower, and children's playground, the majority of the land remains undeveloped, including a 15-acre main lake and a 29-acre natural wetland.

Sepang Municipal Council's previous activities primarily focused on improving facilities for lake visitors, with less attention paid to lake health or biodiversity. Recognizing this, the Global Environment Centre (GEC) has embarked on an exciting project—the "Community-based Ecological Enhancement of Cyberjaya Lake Garden," with the support of the Sepang Municipal Council. The aim is to restore the 15-acre main lake, enhance biodiversity and water quality, and connect the local community to this important piece of nature .

Lookout tower at Cyberjaya Lake Gardens

A Comprehensive Restoration Approach

The project proposed by GEC is a holistic initiative aimed at restoring the 15-acre main lake—an invaluable natural asset. The project's cornerstone is the use of nature-based solutions, such as wetlands for water filtration, biofilters for stormwater treatment, and habitat creation for biodiversity improvement. Moreover, it actively involves the local community through citizen science initiatives .

Funding from SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team plays a crucial role in turning this vision into reality. The funding will empower communities through workshops, training, educational programs, and awareness campaigns, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to take ownership of this vital ecosystem enhancement .

Equally important is the support from government agencies, especially the local government (Sepang Municipal Council), as they are the custodians of the lake and its surrounding ecosystems. Their involvement in the project working committee, technical input, and on-site support will ensure the project aligns with government environmental policies and remains sustainable.

Little Egret that was spotted at Cyberjaya Lake Gardens

Water Filtration and Biodiversity Enhancement

Firstly, the project will identify the root causes of degradation and pollution through a rapid environmental assessment study. Following this research, GEC will establish wetlands and biofilters using native species to treat water and filter stormwater naturally. These biofilters, positioned at the lake's edges, will improve water quality of stormwater runoff and provide habitat for flora and fauna.

Furthermore, the project aims to enhance species diversity within the lake. A novel approach involves introducing floating wetland cells designed to purify water in areas less suitable for traditional lakeshore biofilters. The rehabilitation of the lake will not only improve water quality and biodiversity but also enhance the park's aesthetics, attracting more visitors .

Wetland Ecosystem of Cyberjaya Lake Gardens

Community Engagement and Education

Crucially, the project goes beyond environmental restoration; it's about fostering a sense of responsibility and community. By engaging nearby local residents, educational institutions, local authorities, government agencies, and Microsoft employee volunteers, GEC aims to ensure the project's sustainability and long-term success.

Community involvement will extend to wetland planting and clean-up campaigns, instilling a sense of ownership and commitment among residents and visitors to the park. These activities will not only maintain the wetland cells and biofilters, but will also enhance monitoring efforts. Thorough monitoring helps evaluate project progress along The Restorative Continuum, outlined in SER’s International Principles & Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration .

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

Employing SER’s standards for this project enhances GEC’s chance of meeting its project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The Community-based Ecological Enhancement of Cyberjaya Lake Garden project aligns with principles outlined in the SER standards by :

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: The project integrates a wide range of expertise, including local and indigenous knowledge. Various stakeholders, such as the local community, government agencies (local, state, and national), NGOs/CBOs, educational institutions (universities and schools), and consultants, will provide input during project development and design. Communities will be consulted to harness local knowledge and promote ownership. Partnerships with agencies and stakeholders as part of the working group committee will provide crucial technical support. Additionally, local experts, including nearby indigenous communities, may guide the selection of native wetland plant species, including traditional uses. The project site will also serve as an educational platform for sharing knowledge and raising environmental awareness among the public, local communities, and volunteers.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: The project actively encourages diverse community involvement, including Microsoft datacenter employees. Activities such as tree and reed planting for wetland cells and biofilters will engage the local community and data center employees. They will receive guidance on monitoring and data collection for ongoing monitoring and site maintenance. The proposed education program will also be open to the public beyond the local community. Collaborations with the Landscape Department and the Town Planning Department of Sepang Local Council, the custodians of the Cyberjaya Lake Garden, will identify opportunities for community and data center employee involvement during and after the project.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: The project assesses the impacts of runoff on the lake, which receives water primarily from surrounding green areas and paved roads. A rapid environmental assessment conducted at the project's outset will identify potential direct and indirect causes of degradation. Wetlands and biofilters, using native plants such as umbrella plants, common reeds, and cattails, will address habitat degradation and enhance biological health. Wetlands will serve as aquatic habitats, increasing ecosystem biodiversity and water quality.
4. Enhancing Biodiversity: It is particularly important to boost biodiversity in the project sites by establishing local species, as these are human-made lakes. A rapid assessment will identify reference sites (minimally degraded ecosystems), thus helping establish goals for the project site. Progress will be assessed during the monitoring and evaluation phase, focusing on data recording and observation. Native tree species, including Pulai and Gelam, along with wetland plants, pollinator gardens, and other habitats, will be introduced to increase biodiversity. The release of native fish into the lake will further diversify aquatic life. These initiatives will create habitats that support a healthier aquatic ecosystem and terrestrial biodiversity, including pollinators like birds, bees, and butterflies.
5. Achieving Environmental Benefits and Social Equity: The project will be planned and implemented in a holistic manner to achieve improved environmental and community benefits while minimizing negative impacts.

1. Wetlands and biofilters will be designed and implemented to harmonize with the natural environment, using native plants.
2. Gains in environmental benefits will be monitored through water quality data and biodiversity assessments.
3. Community and stakeholder engagement will incorporate their opinions and concerns to optimize solutions with their well-being in mind.
4. Environmental education programs will be conducted to foster environmental consciousness, and the Lake Ranger program will empower participants to become citizen scientists, contributing to the lake ecosystem restoration.
5. This approach will lead to a more environmentally conscious community. The project will closely engage and empower the public and volunteers, evaluating its impact on daily life and the social economy through questionnaires, activities, and participation.

In adhering to SER standards, the Community-based Ecological Enhancement of Cyberjaya Lake Gardens project is poised to deliver a comprehensive and sustainable restoration effort. Through collaboration, education, and standards-based practices, this project aims to breathe new life into this urban area and set a precedent for ecological restoration in human-made freshwater lakes in Malaysia . 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the with Global Environment Centre (GEC) in partnership with Majlis Perbandaran Sepang. Learn more here.

 

In the heart of an urbanized area in South Central Phoenix, next to the Salt River and within the Sonoran Desert, an inspiring pollinator restoration initiative is underway.  Led by a public-non-profit-academic planning team, including Arizona State University (ASU), Audubon Southwest, Tiger Mountain Foundation and the City of Phoenix, this highly collaborative project is restoring pollinator habitat and informing the public about the important connection between pollinators and their habitat. The project is part of the regional river revitalization initiative, Rio Reimagined, which aims to improve environmental engagement, quality of life, habitat, and health of neighborhoods along the Salt and Gila river corridor in metro Phoenix.  The initiative recognizes the crucial role pollinators have in maintaining ecosystem balance and aims to raise awareness about the benefits of protecting and restoring natural ecosystems in a rapidly growing county .

The Significance of Pollinator Projects in Central Phoenix

Pollinators, including species of bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, sunbirds, and bats—all found in the Sonoran Desert—play a vital part in plant reproduction and the production of fruits, vegetables, and seeds. Nonetheless, these essential species face numerous challenges, such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. To address this urgency and to protect these species, ASU, Audubon Southwest, City of Phoenix and the Tiger Mountain Foundation are creating a pollinator demonstration garden as part of a conceptual ‘Pollinator Trail’ of waystations  along the Salt-Gila River corridor .

This pollinator garden is also implemented as part of SER’s Standards-based Restoration in Action in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team. The project focuses on restoring a 1-2-acre pollinator habitat along the Salt River, in the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, near the Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center. The pollinator garden’s proximity to the Audubon Center will allow for enhanced community engagement and educational programs. Ecologically, pollinator gardens along river riparian zones offer practical and accessible ways to support biodiversity by providing a haven for both local and migrating pollinators .

The Audubon Center will be the second site established through Rio Reimagined partners within the last year, joining existing waystations installed by the City of Phoenix - Central Avenue Trailhead Pollinator Garden, the Maricopa County Parks - Estrella Mountain Regional Park Pollinator Garden. The City of Phoenix has a 5-year Monarch Pledge program that is increasing habitat in municipal sites throughout the city.

Rio Salado Corridor - Photo Credit Tim Roberts

Creating Vibrant Pollinator Habitat

The overarching aim is to transform a 1-2-acre area into a vibrant habitat for pollinators by following a well-defined ecological process. The process begins with site preparation, including removing invasive species and improving soil quality. Garden design will be provided by landscape architect students at Arizona State University’s Design School.  Native plant species will be carefully selected based on their blooming periods and appeal to different pollinators. Offering diverse nectar and pollen sources throughout the year ensures a continuous food supply for resident pollinators. Strategic plantings will also create a harmonious and interconnected habitat. Finally, ongoing monitoring and maintenance will help ensure the garden's long-term success. The pollinator demonstration garden project will include the following enhancements : 

Diverse Native Plant Understory: Carefully chosen native  shrubs, cacti, succulents, perennials, wildflowers, and grasses attract a variety of pollinators.

Efficient Irrigation System: An automatic irrigation system conserves water while maintaining plant health.

Educational Interpretation: Multi-lingual interpretive signage in the garden and exhibits in the Audubon Center educate visitors about the vital role of pollinators in the riparian ecosystem.

Stone Garden Pathways: Improved pathways enhance visitor experience and accessibility.

Climate change resilience: Phoenix is experiencing its hottest summer ever, with water availability already a concern, and likely to grow over the next five to ten years. In planning this garden, efforts will be made to include climate resilience designs.

Photo credit VGPhotoz Collectionz by Vlad Georgescu

Community Engagement, Outreach, and Education

Another aim of this project is to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment and its resources. Involvement of the local South Phoenix community, , various non-profit organizations, academic research, and citizen scientists, is crucial for success. Therefore, the project  intentionally includes landscape design by students, project labor by a leading community-based workforce development organization and indigenous cultural values of plants and pollinators on signage .

Furthermore, the pollinator garden will serve as a demonstration area and educational hub for the Audubon Center, offering guided tours, workshops, and outreach programs. People of all ages will be able to learn about local and migrating pollinators, their significance, and the importance of conserving their habitats. By deepening the community’s connection with this vital ecosystem, the project aims to inspire a generation of environmental advocates working towards a sustainable future .

RIO Volunteers - photo credit VGPhotoz Collectionz by Vlad Georgescu

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

By using the SER standards for this project, the planning team will have a greater chance of meeting their project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. The pollinator garden demonstration project aligns with principles outlined in the SER standards b y:

1. Ensuring diverse and relevant knowledge and technical capacity are integrated, including local and indigenous knowledge. The Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center is a well-established eco-tourism destination near downtown Phoenix, fostering connections between people and nature in an urban area.  Audubon collaborates with various organizations and experts to promote conservation stewardship, restore habitats, and increase biodiversity through native plant and pollinator abundance. Local residents are engaged in these efforts to create a greener and more sustainable community.
2. Promoting inclusion and participation of the local community (Principle 1). The project actively involves diverse community members, local businesses, and organizations in creating a pollinator garden. Youth, women, seniors, and underserved communities play vital roles in spreading awareness about the environment, social justice, sustainability, and resilience. Private sector partners and non-profit organizations collaborate to support conservation events and projects, engaging the public in workshops and initiatives for a healthier ecosystem and more resilient communities.
3. Identifying and reducing indirect and direct causes of degradation to the extent practical. The pollinator garden project addresses the decline of pollinators like bees, butterflies, and bats, which affects plant reproduction and ecosystem health. The restoration area provides a habitat for these pollinators, and best management practices are employed to enhance their well-being.
4. Increasing integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity within the restoration area and community. As part of the Rio Reimagined efforts, the project aims to create pollinator garden sites along the Salt – Gila River corridor, with the Rio Salado Audubon Center as a critical waystation on the south bank of the river. These pollinator garden sites not only provide high-quality habitat for pollinators but also benefit local urban gardeners and farmers, who rely on pollinators to obtain high yields of fruits and vegetables. But perhaps most importantly, these gardens have become places where city residents connect with biodiversity, where tangible interactive exhibits visibly and tactilely demonstrate natural ecosystems and their benefits to society.
5. Achieving and sustaining the greatest net gain possible for environmental benefits, human well-being, and social equity for the community. The pollinator garden restoration project yields numerous benefits for both pollinators and the local community. By providing a rich and diverse habitat, the garden attracts a wide array of pollinator species, contributing to biodiversity conservation. As the pollinators thrive, so do the native plants, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. Furthermore, the project fosters environmental education and awareness by engaging visitors, students, and volunteers, highlighting the crucial role of pollinators and inspiring a sense of stewardship for the natural world.

This new pollinator demonstration garden at the Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center benefits the local ecosystem and the local community. By creating a diverse and sustainable habitat, fostering environmental education, and engaging the community, the project is sure to make a positive impact for years to come . 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the with Arizona State University (ASU) in partnership with Audubon Southwest in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. Learn more here.

 

The Chicago area is renowned for its numerous natural areas, safeguarding biodiversity and offering recreational opportunities for its millions of residents. However, like many urbanized regions, these natural areas encounter challenges such as habitat fragmentation and disrupted ecological processes. In this Restoration Story, we will delve into the Barrington Greenway Initiative (BGI) and the innovative Conservation Corps program by the Friends of the Forest Preserves (FOTFP) in partnership with the Bobolink Foundation in Barrington, Illinois, USA .

About the Barrington Greenways Initiative (BGI)

The BGI is a collaborative effort aimed at restoring the ecological health of 14,000 acres of protected nature near Barrington, Illinois. Partners include organizations such as the Forest Preserves of Cook County, Lake County Forest Preserve District, McHenry County Conservation District, Audubon Great Lakes, Bobolink Foundation, Citizens for Conservation, and Friends of the Forest Preserves. Together, these partners work to restore the ecological health of wetlands, woodlands, savannas, and prairies across the region. The initiative seeks to enhance biodiversity, protect water quality, and provide vital habitat for native species by restoring and preserving the area's ecological integrity.

One of the key strengths of the BGI lies in its ability to amplify the speed and scale of ecological restoration projects. By leveraging the combined knowledge and resources of its partners, the initiative efficiently implements restoration, including reestablishing native prairies and wetlands to combating invasive species, promoting sustainable land management practices, and creating green jobs through the Conservation Corps. The focus is on achieving long-term ecological health.

A Partnership for Progress

As part of SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team, FOTFP received funds for their Conservation Corps program. This program offers valuable opportunities for high school students, young adults, and adults from underserved neighborhoods to learn about careers in conservation while developing essential leadership and teamwork skills. The Conservation Corps engages in ecological restoration by removing invasive species, planting seeds, and preparing the earth for rejuvenation. Additionally, participants gain critical skills like job readiness and financial literacy, preparing them for future careers and opportunities.

FOTFP fields its Conservation Corps program in various regions across the county, including the BGI, Calumet, North Branch, and Palos regions, for individuals interested in pursuing a professional career in restoration. Crew members work year-round to restore native plants and remove invasive species in Cook County's forest preserves. Additional programs include The Forest Preserve Experience and the Chicago Conservation Leadership Corps, which are both five-week paid summer programs providing high school students with hands-on experience in environmental restoration and conservation.

These programs not only contribute to the restoration of the Chicago region’s environment but also introduce participants to green job opportunities. The Conservation Corps programs offer rewarding experiences for both teenagers and adults seeking meaningful work in restoration and help foster a new generation of conservation leaders in Cook County.

Standards-based restoration is delivering measurable results

By using the SER standards for this project, FOTFP has a greater chance of meeting their project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration accounts for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigates trade-offs in land-use, addresses challenges, and increases design and implementation effectiveness. The FOTFP Conservation Corps program aims to :

1. Ensure that diverse and relevant knowledge and technical capacity are integrated and employed through collaborative efforts with local ecology experts and volunteers.
2. Promote inclusion and participation with diverse community members by integrating regular training to uphold high standards of inclusivity and diversity.
3. Identify and reduce indirect and direct causes of degradation to the extent practical by using sound ecological management practices to prevent the reinfestation of invasive species.
4. Enhance biodiversity of plant and animal species by actively countering habitat degradation through the eradication of invasive species and the reintroduction of native species.
5. Achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible for the environment, human well-being, and social equity by engaging and empowering the community in the stewardship of these natural areas. This will ensure that these spaces will be valued and cared for well into the future.

The FOTFP Conservation Corps program is a shining example of what can be accomplished when passionate individuals and organizations join forces for a common cause. As the BGI expands, it not only restores the land but also renews the community’s connection with nature . 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Friends of the Forest Preserves and the Bobolink Foundation in Barrington, Illinois, USA. Learn more here.

 

The San Antonio River is a crucial natural landmark that has played a significant role in the rich history and culture of San Antonio, Texas. In 2013, the multi-year, $384.1 million San Antonio River Improvements Project was completed, revitalizing 13 miles of the San Antonio River. Among these was the Mission Reach, a stretch of river that prior to restoration was a concrete-lined drainage ditch devoid of flora and fauna .

This Restoration Story explores restoration progress made so far, as well as a newly funded restoration project taking place at the Mission Reach as part of SER's Standards-based Restoration in Action in collaboration with Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team. Trinity University and the San Antonio River Authority (SARA) received funding through this program to assess best practices for removal and control methods for guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus) and restoration of native species .

Where the Mission Reach has Come?

The Mission Reach is a stretch of the San Antonio River that starts at the southernmost US World Heritage Site, the San Antonio Missions. From there, it extends eight miles (12.9 kilometers) south of the San Antonio RiverWalk, an iconic tourist destination. The area had become severely degraded due to river channelization in the 1950s, the proliferation of invasive plants, and the loss of biodiversity. Starting in the 1990s, a remarkable restoration project revived this river section, turning it into a vibrant and thriving ecosystem for nature and people.

View of the historic San Antonio RiverWalk in downtown San Antonio Texas, USA.

Over the past 30 years, the aim was to enhance and transform the Mission Reach into a magnificent 8-mile-long oasis for nature and people. The Mission Reach Ecosystem Restoration and Recreation Project focused on enhancing the environmental health of the area while ensuring its accessibility to the community. To achieve this, the project included novel flood mitigation approaches combined with erosion control, habitat creation, and native plant restoration as key elements.

Erosion Control: prior river channelization degraded the riverine habitat because the steep angle of the river increased water velocity, causing erosion, sediment imbalance, high densities of disturbance species, and the loss of native fish. To address these complex challenges, the project team used fluvial geomorphology principles based on natural river-forming processes, allowing for the replication of more natural river function. Eight structures were placed to balance the slope of the river and enhance sediment transport, and 23 riffles were constructed to increase gas exchange and create pool habitat for native fish. Read more about this work here.

A human-made riffle to enable the creation of pool habitat for native fish.

Habitat Creation: the project incorporated the restoration and creation of 334 acres of riparian woodland along the river, including backwater habitats and eight acres of bottomland hardwood forests, also known as river swamps. These habitats attract a wide range of bird species, such as herons, egrets, and songbirds, making the Mission Reach a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Native Plant Restoration: invasive plant species were removed, and a variety of native vegetation, such as grasses, shrubs, and trees, were reintroduced. Much of the 8-mile corridor has seen successful establishment of native grasses and wildflowers. This step significantly increased biodiversity and provided favorable habitats for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. Nonetheless, guinea grass, a highly invasive non-native, has also come to dominate large stretches, negatively impacting the overall restoration effectiveness .

Connecting the community through nature at the Mission Reach

The restoration of the Mission Reach didn't just focus on the environment; it also prioritized creating recreational spaces for the public to enjoy. The public has enthusiastically embraced the renewed access to the river through activities such as biking, walking, fishing, birdwatching, art viewing, and concerts. These activities were made possible by the addition of numerous amenities and facilities along the river, including:

Hiking and Biking Trails: an extensive network of pedestrian and bicycle trails has been developed, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the area on foot or by bike. These trails offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding natural beauty.

Kayaking and Canoeing: the restoration project has made the Mission Reach even more enjoyable for water enthusiasts. Kayaking and canoeing are now popular activities, allowing people to immerse themselves in an urban river adventure.

Picnic Areas and Public Art: the area now has well-designed picnic areas and public art installations, creating a peaceful and artistic ambiance. These spaces invite visitors to relax, soak in the beauty of nature, and celebrate the cultural heritage of San Antonio .

The San Antonio River trails.

Where the Mission Reach Must Go

However, the proliferation of large stretches of guinea grass, a highly invasive non-native species, poses a significant challenge to restoration efforts in the Mission Reach.  To address this issue, a collaborative restoration project involving SARA, Trinity University and its students, and the public, was funded through SER’s Standards Based Restoration in Action program.

The primary objective of the project is to assess the most effective practices for removing and controlling guinea grass, as well as restoring native species that can limit proliferation of invasive species. The SARA team has actively worked to control guinea grass for almost a decade but the key to managing the species remains elusive. The goal of this project is to employ an experimental approach to assess which removal techniques and restored native species work best to reduce guinea grass re-invasion. Both students and the public will actively participate in the restoration and data collection to assess progress of guinea grass control and restoration.

Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus), photo by John Robert McPherson (CC BY-SA 4.0.)

SARA plays a key role because of their expertise in conducting large-scale restoration projects, while Dr. Kelly Lyons, a Biology Professor at Trinity University, will provide scientific guidance on project design and monitoring, as well as volunteer training. Students from Dr. Lyons' department will also be involved as part of Course-based Undergraduate Research, a progressive teaching approach that enables classroom students to learn through involvement with more meaningful real-world, publishable, cutting-edge research rather than more disconnected laboratory activities.

Dr. Kelly Lyons, Biology Professor at Trinity University

The project also includes support for three Trinity University undergraduate research associates in the Lyons Lab to engage in the research and field-based components of the project. These students will present their findings at conferences, such as the annual meeting for the Texas Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration and, ultimately, serve as co-authors in a scientific journal publication. In addition, the project includes support for public volunteer opportunities that will cultivate community understanding of the natural history of the San Antonio River as well as the process of implementation and science behind restoration.

Fall 2023, research associates and students from Dr. Lyons’ ecology course will conduct preliminary analyses of guinea grass and native species cover. Then, in collaboration with the SARA team, the process of removal and restoration will begin .

Members of the San Antonio River Association (SARA) in the field, doing preliminary site visits

Standards-based restoration is delivering measurable results

By using the SER standards for this project, SARA and Trinity University are demonstrating the value of standards for increasing the likelihood that restoration will achieve its stated objectives. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. This collaborative restoration project is designed to:

1. Ensure that relevant knowledge and technical capacity are integrated and employed by bringing together the cumulative expertise from the management community (SARA) and academia (Trinity University), thus linking science and practice in a real world restoration project.
2. Promote inclusion and participation with diverse community members by organizing volunteer planting events. In addition, each fall, volunteers will be invited to help collect data on the efficacy of the treatments and establishment of native species.
3. Identify and reduce indirect and direct causes of degradation by reversing habitat degradation. The degradation processes addressed include: invasive species that limited native plant and animal diversity, loss of native food web resources, and possible loss of carbon sequestration due to low diversity.
4. Increase integrity, area, amount, and viability of biodiversity within the restoration area and community by reducing the dominant invasive species, guinea grass, and facilitating the recovery of native species.
   

Overall, this collaborative restoration project will have multiple positive outcomes. It will enable SARA and Trinity to expand understanding and refine best practices for invasive species removal, long-term control, and restoration of native grassland species. Additionally, the project will provide valuable training opportunities for Trinity University students, critical information for the field of restoration research and management, and offer the public a chance to engage with the Mission Reach project and learn about restoration techniques in practice. 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Trinity University and the San Antonio River Association in San Antonio, Texas USA. Learn more here.

 

The Boone River at high water levels. Photo by David Morris, licensed under CC BY 2.0.

The Boone River Watershed in north-central Iowa, USA, covers approximately 581,000 acres (235,000 hectares), the majority of which is devoted to agriculture. This watershed is also home to some of the most biologically diverse and healthy freshwater communities in Iowa. This is because, for its size, the Boone River is a relatively intact watershed, and is also undergoing inspiring conservation and restoration efforts.

For the past 14 years, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in partnership with 12 organizations, has been restoring critical oxbow wetland habitats in strategic locations throughout the watershed. Their partners include: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Fishers and Farmers Partnership, Iowa State University, Iowa Geological Survey, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, USGS Fish and Wildlife Cooperative Unit, local soil and water conservation districts, local county conservation boards, Boone River Watershed Management Authority, and local private landowners .

What is an oxbow, and why is it important?

An oxbow wetland is an old river meander that has become separated from the flow of water in the main river channel, either naturally or through man-made straightening. They vary greatly in size, some covering a 10,000 acre (4000 hectare) area and others being so small you can jump across them. Oxbow wetlands are a critical wetland habitat in the Boone River watershed. They help store excess water as a preventative tool against flooding, filter water to improve water quality, and provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the Topeka shiner, which is listed as endangered at both the state and federal levels.

An example of a meandering river and the formation of oxbows.

Over the last 100 years, most of the historic oxbows in the Boone River Watershed have been degraded. Habitat loss has also occurred through the straightening of streams, draining of wetlands, and the sediment deposition that has filled in oxbows. As streams are incised, they become disconnected from their floodplains, preventing wildlife including the Topeka shiners from accessing off-stream habitat.

To help combat the degradation of oxbow wetlands, TNC is restoring oxbows throughout the watershed. So far, TNC has completed projects at 47 out of over 400 potential restoration projects in the watershed. In total, over 100 oxbows have been restored in strategic locations across the state through robust and diverse project partnerships.

Continuing Restoration of Oxbow Wetlands

Led by TNC in partnership with Iowa Department of Natural Resources, a new oxbow restoration project received funding from the Microsoft and SER standards-based ecological restoration collaboration. This collaboration provides technical and field support to implement standards-based ecological restoration projects in communities hosting Microsoft datacenters across the world. Eight other projects have been funded to date.

This project aims to restore one degraded oxbow wetland in the Boone River Watershed, and reestablish the important ecosystem services it provides: flood mitigation, water quality improvements, habitat for various wildlife, including the Topeka shiner.

A Topeka Shiner (Notropis topeka) Breeding Male. Photo by USFWS Mountain Prairie.

The benefits of TNC’s wetland restoration efforts have been extensively evaluated, showing measurable and lasting impacts on improving water quality. Over 50% of TNC restoration projects in the watershed support Topeka shiners. In 2020, TNC documented the return of Topeka shiners to a sub-watershed after a 36-year absence, illustrating that restoration is key in helping species adapt to a changing climate, degraded water quality, and dysfunctional hydrology.

 

Moreover, restored oxbows capture, store, and filter agricultural runoff, naturally removing an average of 42% of the nitrates from the waterways and reducing flooding impacts for downstream communities. By restoring critical oxbow wetland habitat, TNC is helping address the biodiversity crisis, improve water quality, and provide important flood control for downstream communities, like Des Moines.

Standards-based restoration is delivering measurable results

Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land-use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness, thus reducing risk and increasing the likelihood of beneficial project outcomes. TNC’s oxbow restoration project is designed to:

1. Draw on diverse, expert, and relevant knowledge and technical capacity. Over the past 12 years, TNC has worked with over 12 different partners to restore oxbows in the Boone River Watershed, actively drawing on diverse knowledge, technical expertise, funding, and outreach.
2. Promote inclusion and participation of diverse landowners and community members through field days, newsletters, and online content. TNC’s well established outreach methods effectively engage the local and downstream communities in the project, helping build awareness of the importance of oxbow wetland restorations.
3. Identify and reduce indirect and direct causes of degradation by restoring critical environmental function to degraded oxbow wetlands. The project removes sediment that has eroded into the oxbow. A vegetative buffer is also installed around the oxbow, which is paired with uphill conservation practices to further limit sediment flowing into the oxbow. A landowner maintenance agreement further ensures the health and function of the oxbow for a minimum of 10 years. Research by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found only 2 inches (5.08 cm) of re-sedimentation in an oxbow that was restored 20 years ago, proving the longevity of this conservation practice.
4. Increase integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity within the restoration area and community. Project monitoring over the past 10 years has shown that 57 fish species and 81 bird species have benefitted from restored oxbow habitat, including the federally endangered Topeka Shiner minnow. The Topeka Shiner recovery has been so successful that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering changing their status from “endangered” to “threatened.”
5. Achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible for environmental benefits, human wellbeing, and social equity for the community, given project size and investment. TNC is bringing their work to scale through the creation of the Oxbow Restoration Toolkit, which has helped train over 200 conservation professionals in Iowa and was shared with over 2,000 additional conservation practitioners. TNC’s work also helped get oxbow restoration added to the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy, allowing state cost share for restoration and bringing further attention to this important river and watershed restoration strategy.

A before (left photo) and after (right photo) of an oxbow restoration project implemented by The Nature Conservancy in the Boone River Watershed. Photos by Karen Wilke, The Nature Conservancy.

The scale and duration of TNC’s work on restoring critical wetland habitats in the Boone River Watershed is a resource by providing a robust framework for ecological restoration efforts for similar sites. Their work has already resulted in improved biodiversity, flood control, and water quality in Iowa. This project serves as a reminder of the critical role that wetlands play in helping species adapt to a changing climate, degraded water quality, and dysfunctional hydrology . 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Nature Conservancy in Des Moines, Iowa, USA. Learn more here.

 

Sagebrush steppe habitat in the rolling hills of central Washington state

In addition to being among the most endangered ecosystems of the western United States, sagebrush steppe ecosystems are also ecologically, economically, and culturally significant.  The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service identifies sagebrush ecosystems as crucial habitat for over 350 species of plants and wildlife. In the Colockum Wildlife Area adjacent to Malaga County, sagebrush steppe habitat provides critical winter habitat for mule deer and elk, and a plethora of pollinators and songbirds.

Sagebrush steppe is also important to the ranching industry from an economic standpoint, as livestock graze nearly all sagebrush habitats. However, livestock grazing is a main contributor to degradation of the ecosystem¹. Culturally, sagebrush steppe habitats have long held value for humans, particularly for the Native American peoples, who use these habitats for traditional practices such as hunting and harvesting medicinal resources.

The left photo is Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and the right is Rocky Mountain Elk (Cervus canadensis nelsoni).

Unfortunately, wildfires, livestock grazing, and invasion by non-native annual grasses have created a harmful positive feedback loop of increased wildfire size and frequency and further non-native plant invasion.

To help increase understanding about the importance of sagebrush steppe, Chelan County and Malaga-Colockum Community Council are re-creating a sagebrush steppe habitat demonstration area as part of a larger park revitalization project, in Malaga Community Park, in Washington State, USA. Read more about the project through their media announcement.

Characteristics of Sagebrush Steppe

Sagebrush steppe habitat, in Washington state, is characterized by high winds, hot summers, cold winters and limited water availability. Typically, this ecosystem receives only 12 inches (30 cm) of precipitation per year, and much of it falls as snow². These tough conditions are what makes this ecosystem so unique, because the native plants have developed interesting adaptations to survive.

In a healthy sagebrush steppe ecosystem, it is normal to see areas of bare ground that seem empty. This is because you are seeing only half the picture.  Underground there is a vast root system of native plants stretching far vertically and horizontally (illustration 1). This distinctive root network is a water conservation adaptation that helps native plants survive droughts. An interesting example is Bluebunch Wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) which has two types of roots: coarse, penetrating roots that draw water from the underground water table, as well as small, widely dispersed roots that absorb water quickly after rainstorms³.

Illustration 1: sagebrush steppe root systems versus invasive cheatgrass. Sagebrush, Maiden blue-eyed Mary, Bottlebrush Squirelltail, Sandberg Bluegrass, Lupine, Buckwheat, Bluebunch Wheatgrass and Thickspike Wheatgrass are all native to the sagebrush steppe habitat. Cheatgrass to the right of the illustration is an invasive weed. This illustration was reprinted with permission by Working Lands for Wildlife: https://www.wlfw.org/.

Threats to Sagebrush Steppe Habitats

Healthy, undisturbed, sagebrush steppe ecosystems are adapted to limit invasion by non-native annual grasses. For example, a healthy root network helps make water and nutrient resources unavailable to undesirable invasive annual grasses, and the areas of bare ground limit the spread of wildfires.  However, degradation of this ecosystem due to climate change and other human-induced activities has made it so that non-native plant invasion is common and wildfires are more frequent.

For example, increased frequency and intensity of droughts due to climate change, combined with wildfires, agriculture, and livestock grazing can lead to soil loss, and therefore the loss of native grasses and shrubs is important to the ecology of the ecosystem⁴. On top of that, wildfires and severe droughts can benefit the spread of highly invasive plants like cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). The combination of drought, wildfires, soil loss, and invasive plant proliferation leaves sagebrush habitats with little chance of recovering without ecological restoration.

Dense smoke rising from massive wildfire burning in Washington state

As such, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife recently added sagebrush ecosystems as a priority habitat for protection and restoration, as they are often first to be degraded and developed. To help combat the degradation of this priority habitat, Chelan County and Malaga-Colockum Community Council are implementing standards-based restoration of a demonstration sagebrush steppe habitat in Malaga Community Park.

Restoring Sagebrush Steppe in Malaga Community Park

A portion of the grant from SER’s Standards-based Ecological Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft's Datacenter Community Affairs team will be used to restore a native sagebrush steppe plant community in the park. Located just west of the Malaga Market, the park was purchased in 2004 by the Malaga-Colockum Community Council, and serves a growing community of about 4,500 people.

The location for the sagebrush steppe restoration demonstration area is in an old debris field that is currently invaded by cheatgrass. The first step for this restoration project is to remove all the debris and cheatgrass from the area and plant native sagebrush steppe grasses and shrubs. The long-term strategy is to reestablish a healthy sagebrush steppe habitat that will outcompete invasive grasses, thus limiting the spread of cheatgrass throughout the park.

This grant will help support the past and ongoing community volunteer engagement at Malaga Community Park, expanding their capacity to improve the condition of the park and to re-create this demonstration area of a healthy sagebrush steppe area.

In addition to the community benefits, this restoration project will be beneficial for wildlife, since the area is adjacent to open land. Restoring native sagebrush steppe plant communities helps to protect and enhance habitat for pollinators and nesting bird species in Chelan County. This restored area will support a variety of wildflowers that provide food throughout the season for pollinator species like the Lorquin's admiral butterfly (Limenitis lorquini) and grasses and shrubs for birds that nest in sagebrush ecosystems like the Sagebrush Sparrow (Artemisiospiza nevadensis).

Left photo is a Sagebrush Sparrow (Artemisiospiza nevadensis) in winter by Tim Lenz/Flickr (CC BY 2.0), the right impage is an Lorquin's admiral butterfly (Limenitis lorquini)

By removing the debris and addressing the invasive weeds and degraded plant community in the unused portion of the existing park, this project will increase biodiversity and restore a native sagebrush steppe plant community. Restoration of this habitat will provide important habitat for a wide range of animals that rely on sagebrush for food and shelter in this region, where these habitats are rapidly being lost for agricultural and development purposes.

Once complete, this restoration project will provide a demonstration site for the community to gather and learn about this unique habitat. Detailed signage will be developed in collaboration with the Wenatchee tribe, whose traditional territory encompasses Malaga Community Park. 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Drake University and Polk County Conservation in West Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa. Learn more here.

Footnotes

 

1. The National Wildlife Federation, Sagebrush Steppe

2. Washington State Magazine, Pacific Northwest sagebrush steppe

3. Chelan-Douglas Land Trust, Shrub-Steppe Plant Ecology

4. The National Wildlife Federation, Sagebrush Steppe

 

Lake Accotink, located in Fairfax County, Virginia, USA, has long been a treasured recreational spot for local residents. However, the presence of invasive species has led to a decline in the health of the lake and the surrounding forests. To combat this issue, a collaborative, and community-driven ecological restoration and invasive species management project has been set in motion. This article offers an overview of the project's key aspects, focusing on the efforts of the Fairfax County Park Authority and Plant NOVA Natives.

In early 2023, the Fairfax County Park Foundation (FCPF) secured funding through the Society for Ecological Restoration's (SER) Standards-based Ecological Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft. The primary objective of this grant is to support the Fairfax County Park Authority's battle against invasive plant species at Lake Accotink Park in Springfield, Virginia.

The Crucial Role of Restoration

Ecological restoration plays a pivotal role in maintaining the biodiversity and ecological health of natural areas. Invasive species represent a significant threat to native plants and wildlife, disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems. Addressing this challenge necessitates a united effort that involves various organizations and the local community.

In response to the invasive species at Lake Accotink Park, the Fairfax County Park Authority's Invasive Management Area (IMA) has initiated a habitat restoration project. This initiative, supported by the grant, began with a volunteer event hosted by Plant NOVA Natives, that brought together Microsoft datacenter employees and community members. Together, they aim to systematically eliminate invasive species and reintroduce native trees.

The project will focus on treating approximately 7.2 acres at Lake Accotink, with special attention given to vines that threaten the well-being of mature trees. Furthermore, professional invasive removal contractors, guided by scientific expertise, will manage areas that are either inaccessible or unsafe for volunteer efforts. Their treatments will be followed by additional treatments over a five-year period to prevent reinfestation.

 

Educating the Community

Education plays a pivotal role in this scientific endeavor. Informative signs, rooted in ecological science, will be strategically placed along well-traveled paths within the park to inform the community about the significance of native plant species and the harm invasive species have them. This project goes beyond the park's boundaries, with a commitment to educate the surrounding community about the ecological implications of invasive species and the importance of their removal from their own properties.

 

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

By using the SER standards for this project, the Fairfax County and Plant NOVA Trees will have a greater chance of meeting their project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness. This ecological restoration and invasive species management project aligns with principles outlined in the SER standards by:

1. Incorporating Diverse Knowledge and Capacity: Preserving natural plant communities and riparian buffers is of paramount importance to the Fairfax County Park Authority. The project's objectives involve recruiting a scientifically diverse array of volunteers and providing professional treatment for the invasive species that are challenging to control. Moreover, a scientific approach is employed to create and disseminate print materials, further enhancing ecological understanding within the community and emphasizing the importance of eradicating invasive species.
2. Promoting Inclusivity and Participation: The project manager will ensure the inclusion of a diverse group of community members in the volunteer workday. Outreach efforts involve scientific partnerships with local community centers in economically disadvantaged areas, designed to promote the event and coordinate transportation.
3. Identifying and Mitigating Causes of Degradation: Many of the invasive species in the park typically originate from landscape plants introduced through waterways. The project targets areas within the park where invasive species are challenging to control and pose significant ecological threats. This strategy is aimed at protecting the park while mitigating seed production and educating the community about invasive species removal.
4. Enhancing Biodiversity:  By controlling invasive species near high-quality forests, native plants will have the opportunity to thrive. Reducing the seed source of invasive species will be coupled with restoration in previously infested areas. This approach will provide scientific evidence for additional planting opportunities for volunteers, promoting increased biodiversity.
5. Achieving Environmental Benefits and Social Equity: The project's proximity to low-income communities underscores its importance. It will not only promote equitable access to a vibrant and healthy natural recreational area but also offer environmental benefits, including carbon removal, improved water, and air quality. This initiative, guided by SER's Standards, serves as a model for other corporations and individuals to engage in scientific stewardship of local ecosystems. It highlights the potential of ecological restoration science to make a substantial positive impact on both the environment and communities.

The collaborative ecological restoration and invasive species management project at Lake Accotink in Fairfax County, Virginia, serves as a testament to the power of community engagement and partnership. Through the dedicated efforts of Plant NOVA Native and the Fairfax County Park Foundation, significant progress has been made in restoring the lake and its surrounding ecosystem. By embracing the principles of ecological restoration and native plant conservation, this initiative offers a blueprint for other communities seeking to protect and preserve their natural habitats. 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with Fairfax County and Plant NOVA Trees in Fairfax County, Virginia, USA. Learn more here.

 

Tree canopy in Brown's Woodland nature area

Linking restoration to climate change mitigation

People, organizations, and corporations across the world are increasingly aware that advancing environmental and social action, especially with regard to climate change, requires ecological restoration. The Brown’s Woods Restoration and Oak Regeneration Project demonstrates this awareness by taking a rigorous science based approach to increasing carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation through ecological restoration.

Led by Drake University and Polk County Conservation, this project received funding from the Microsoft and SER new standards-based ecological restoration collaboration. This program provides technical and field support to implement standards-based ecological restoration projects in communities hosting Microsoft datacenters across the world. Eight other projects across the United States and beyond have been funded to date.

About Brown’s Wood

Brown’s Woods is a 486-acre native woodland located in West Des Moines, Iowa (USA). It is one of the most heavily used parks in the metro area, seeing 178,000 visitors annually. It is also a key area that sequesters and stores carbon, making it an indispensable climate change mitigation resource.

Trails in Brown's Wood, Spring 2023

However, the Brown’s Woods nature area is under extreme pressure from invasive species and fast-growing shade-tolerant trees not typical to the ecology of the area. Though the area is sequestering carbon in its current state, restoring it to its native reference ecosystem, oak woodland, means increasing the overall net carbon sequestration capacity. When compared to softer-wood species, oak trees (Quercus sp.) have a greater net carbon sequestration capacity. For example, one silver maple tree will store, on average, 0.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide over its lifetime.  An oak, in contrast, will store 5.17 metric tons over its lifetime. Thus, restoring the forest to a more natural, oak-dominated community will result in substantial increases in carbon sequestration.

Why can’t oak trees grow?

The growth of the carbon dioxide loving oak tree in the urban forest is threatened by three ecological impairments: invasive understory plant species and vines, suppression of historic burn regimes, and subsequent changes in tree species composition throughout the area. These three impairments have led to a woodland made up of a dominant oak overstory and a dense and shady understory of invasive shrubs and shade-tolerant weedy tree species like hackberry, basswood, silver maple, and black cherry.

Dead fallen oak tree in Brown's Wood

As seedlings, oak trees grow better when they are exposed to sunlight. Because of the shady understory, therefore, acorns fail to germinate and oak seedlings struggle to get adequate sunlight for growth. Furthermore, a shady-understory favors the growth of those weedy shade-tolerant trees. Ultimately, when the dominant oak overstory dies, the existing large oak trees will be replaced by invasive plants and tree species not typical of a native oak woodland.

Learn more about trees and carbon sequestration here!

Going from some carbon sequestration to more

Restorative actions made possible through the Standards-based Restoration in Action program in collaboration with Microsoft will add to the ongoing restoration of oak woodlands in southwest Polk County. More specifically, the funds will help reverse the replacement of native oak woodland with other trees and invasive species through the following restorative actions:

1. Eradication of invasive species through techniques like cutting and mulching understory trees and invasive shrub species with a forestry mower. This will open up the understory, thus creating a habitat more favorable for oak germination.
2. Removal of standing trees in some areas to further increase the amount of sunlight that gets to the forest floor for improved oak seedling survival and growth.
3.  Hosting of volunteer planting events to reintroduce native understory and mid-story trees and shrubs, including oak saplings.

Overtime, the regeneration of oak species will lead to a net increase in the carbon stored relative to the current state. To measure the increase, Drake University students will build pre- and post-oak regeneration carbon budgets for the site. This allows Polk County Conservation and Drake University to monitor carbon accrual over longer time scales.

Stewards of Brown's Woods conducting invasive species removal

What makes this project standards-based ecological restoration?

By using the SER standards for this project, Drake University and Polk County Conservation have a greater chance of meeting their project goals. Standards-based ecological restoration helps account for complex ecosystem dynamics, navigate trade-offs in land use, address challenges, and increase design and implementation effectiveness.

The Brown’s Woods Restoration and Oak Regeneration project is designed to:

1. Draw on diverse and relevant knowledge and technical capacity by relying on and contributing data, and sharing management lessons with the existing professional network of state, county, and city staff. Additionally, experts at Iowa State University and the office of the state archeologist will consult with indigenous communities within the Brown’s Woods landscape.
2. Encourage the inclusion and participation of community members through rich volunteer opportunities as well as field trips to the site with high school students. This provides the community and youth in the area with opportunities to learn about ecological restoration, basic forestry, and plant identification techniques in the woods.
3. Identify and reduce direct and indirect causes of degradation. The combination of mechanized and volunteer removal of invasive plants plus volunteer oak tree planting will help reinstate and maintain the native oak woodland canopy community that is currently in the process of shifting to weedy shade-tolerant trees. In the future, the use of fire will help address the indirect causes of oak woodland habitat degradation by reducing understory cover and eliminating invasive species.
4. Increase integrity, area, number, or viability of biodiversity: in total, combining the anticipated gains in plant and animal species diversity, Brown’s Woods has the potential to go from an area with 150–200 species to one that sustains 300 or more species, including 3 to 4 endangered bat species.
5. Achieve and sustain the greatest net gain possible for environmental benefits, human wellbeing, and social equity for the community. Climate change mitigation is a key environmental gain for this project, as the growth of oak trees over time will substantially improve carbon storage in the forest.  Additionally, engaging with community volunteers and students creates a connection between stewardship of the land and personal growth and wellbeing. Finally, this project is already serving as a learning laboratory for diverse student and community groups, as a living demonstration as a living demonstration for creating a more sustainable future.

Drake University Student measuring tree diameters to build the pre-restoration carbon model

In all, when looking at the location of this work in combination with an area already managed by Polk County Conservation, a total of 100 acres of oak forest will be restored through this funding program. This project illustrates that standards-based ecological restoration offers great opportunities for climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.

This project is being led by a long-time SER member and, SER Midwest-Great Lakes Chapter leader, Dr. Keith Summerville. 

Microsoft is proud to collaborate with Society and Ecological Restoration to deliver standards-based ecological restoration with the Drake University and Polk County Conservation in West Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa. Learn more here.