In addition to establishing riparian buffers, in-stream habitat improvement, streambank stabilization and/or soil bio-engineering techniques may be appropriate to minimize erosion and restore the stream to a more "natural" condition. Stream restoration implementation is considered on a case-by-case basis depending upon the nature, cause(s) and extent of stream impairment and should be conducted by trained professionals. Some causes of physical stream impairment include the lack of riparian vegetation, improperly-managed urban storm water, stream "channelization" resulting from the inappropriate use of concrete or gabion (stone) structures along streambanks and allowing unrestricted livestock access to the stream.

Wildlands Conservancy would like to advise the users of this web site that the stream restoration techniques described within this web site should be conducted under the guidance of a trained professional.  Many of these techniques require the acquisition of permits appropriate to the devices being implemented, possibly even from multiple local, state and federal agencies.  Trained, certified operators should always be used when operating any type of excavating equipment.  Wildlands Conservancy can provide technical assistance to landowners, organizations, and municipalities with regard to the funding, design, permitting, and implementation of stream restoration projects.

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