Stream restoration conjures many images. In an ideal case, it means returning a damaged stream and its watershed to a pre-disturbance condition. In most cities, however, the radically altered urban hydrology and proximity of streams to structures makes returning to a "pre-disturbance" condition impossible. We have found that even the most badly degraded urban streams can recover many of their lost functions. A restored urban stream supports wildlife, carries the water and sediment delivered to it in equilibrium and takes its place as an asset to the community.
Stream restoration conjures many images. In an ideal case, it means returning a damaged stream and its watershed to a pre-disturbance condition. In most cities, however, the radically altered urban hydrology and proximity of streams to structures makes returning to a "pre-disturbance" condition impossible. We have found that even the most badly degraded urban streams can recover many of their lost functions. A restored urban stream supports wildlife, carries the water and sediment delivered to it in equilibrium and takes its place as an asset to the community.