Program on the Environment

Ecological restoration is a vital part of combating climate change. Some problems that have arisen with ecological restoration are poor management of completed restoration projects and not determining the correct restoration techniques to use. This is important because if a restoration site is not managed and monitored after a project is complete, the progress will become completely reversed. Similarly, if the correct restoration techniques are not determined based on an area’s climate, the restoration project will not be set up for success. The purpose of this study is to determine the best restoration techniques for different parts of Washington state, and to stress the importance of monitoring restoration sites. In order to accomplish this I helped to survey over 50 trees and bushes in an area covered in invasive blackberry bushes. Factoring in the climate of the area the site was in and what trees and bushes thrived the most, myself and another intern developed a restoration plan for the site. In addition to this I researched the climate of both eastern and western Washington, as well as looking into the importance of monitoring restoration sites. The results showed how much climate can impact what restoration techniques work the best in certain areas. My research also stressed the importance of continuous monitoring of restoration sites in order to ensure success. Determining helpful restoration techniques and monitoring completed restoration sites go hand in hand to ensure a successful restoration project.