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What are the real drivers behind river restoration projects?
  • Étienne Gariépy-Girouard,
  • Thomas Buffin-Bélanger,
  • Pascale Biron
Étienne Gariépy-Girouard
Universite du Quebec a Rimouski

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Thomas Buffin-Bélanger
Universite du Quebec a Rimouski
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Pascale Biron
Concordia University
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Abstract

Integrating hydrogeomorphological principles into the restoration of degraded rivers can achieve sustainable results for a variety of objectives and human benefits that are consistent with the potential functioning of rivers as well as their uses. Despite recent management approaches inspired by these principles, several restoration projects largely involve controlling river processes and target specific one-dimensional objectives often associated with the habitat of a few high-valued fish species or with rivers steadiness and aesthetics. Although there is overall a lack of post-project monitoring, several projects appear to have failed or had mixed success. This research aims to answer the question: What are the real drivers behind river restoration projects? Four restoration projects in Quebec (Canada) were characterized through a qualitative research process of support and interviews with the organizations running them as well as with two representatives of ministries involved in river restoration and management. The results identify two major drivers for the formulation of restoration objectives: project funding and stakeholder expertise. We propose a new analytical framework including these drivers, which appear to act as both conditions and motivations guiding the objectives of the projects and their diversity. Following diverse sociocultural and legislative contexts shaping these drivers, they may facilitate or restrict the integration of hydrogeomorphological principles towards diversified objectives and benefits. This supports regulation that is better informed by scientific knowledge about hydrogeomorphological and sociocultural river dynamics, knowledge sharing between academic researchers and environmental organizations, and collaboration between stakeholders and communities living around rivers.
27 Oct 2023Submitted to River Research and Applications
27 Oct 2023Submission Checks Completed
27 Oct 2023Assigned to Editor
02 Nov 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
06 Nov 2023Reviewer(s) Assigned
30 Jan 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Major
18 Mar 20241st Revision Received
18 Mar 2024Submission Checks Completed
18 Mar 2024Assigned to Editor
11 Apr 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
24 Apr 2024Submission Checks Completed
24 Apr 2024Assigned to Editor
24 Apr 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending