How emerging trees can be used for a passive restoration of the stream banks at Vallée-Aux-Berges (Normandy, France)

Abstract

Riparian ecosystems are complex and sensitive. The restoration of these ecotones can be done in particular by the reforestation to prevent from the erosion. The aim of this study hold on the ecological restoration of a headwater stream in Normandy, France : we studied the natural reforestation of the banks by a passive restoration method. Our results show a rapid recruitment of young shrubs and trees the first year and a stabilization after one year. An increase of specie richness and of the species distribution heterogeneity is notice on all the area. Furthermore, downstream meadows are more diversify than those upstream. This study brings to light the ecological efficiency of passive restoration and its potential for riparian reforestation.