An ecosystem with integrity is a resilient and self-sustaining natural system able to accommodate stress and change.Ecological integrity refers to the condition of an ecosystem - particularly the structure, composition and natural processes of its biotic communities and physical environment. Restoration should re-establish insofar as possible the ecological integrity of degraded aquatic ecosystems. Even with waterbodies for which restoration is planned, the first objective should be to prevent further degradation. Rather, restoration is a complementary activity that, when combined with protection and preservation, can help achieve overall improvements in a greater percentage of the Nation's waters. Thus, restoration does not replace the need to protect aquatic resources in the first place. Existing, relatively intact ecosystems are the keystone for conserving biodiversity, and provide the biota and other natural materials needed for the recovery of impaired systems. Monitor and adapt where changes are necessary.Restore native species, avoid non-native species.Use passive restoration, when appropriate.
Develop clear, achievable and measurable goals.Understand the potential of the watershed.Work within the watershed/landscape context.In addition, partnership with stakeholders can also add useful resources, ranging from money and technical expertise to volunteer help with implementation and monitoring. Coordination with the people and organizations that may be affected by the project can help build the support needed to get the project moving and ensure long-term protection of the restored area. The presence or absence of public support for a restoration project can be the difference between positive results and failure. These principles focus on scientific and technical issues, but as in all environmental management activities, the importance of community perspectives and values should not be overlooked. These principles apply to different stages in the life of a restoration project - from early planning to post-implementation monitoring - and are offered here for use by a wide variety of people and organizations, ranging from Federal, State, Tribal and local agencies to outdoor recreation or conservation groups, corporations, landowners and citizens' groups. To help build on the lessons of restoration projects and promote effective restoration, the Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds assembled the following list of principles that have been critical to the success of a wide range of aquatic resource restoration projects.
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