9. Start implementation of a restoration plan: Putting the plan into action
Begin the implementation of the restoration plan, carefully executing the outlined interventions while considering the ecological sensitivities of the habitat.
10. Evaluate the success of interventions: Comparing outcomes with set targets
Consistent evaluation of restoration outcomes against predetermined targets is pivotal for success. The efficacy of restoration efforts is intricately linked to the identified targets. Assessing outcomes at the target level, rather than merely the means level, is crucial. For instance, monitoring the success of Spartina removal solely informs about the presence or absence of Spartina, yet it does not provide insights into the broader restoration of the tidal flat's health, for example as a foraging habitat for shorebirds, such as the re-establishment of the native salt marsh community. Functional success is an important concept that assesses whether the ecological functions of the system have been restored (Atkinson, 2001). This encompasses, for instance, the restoration of intertidal habitats' ability to support food chains, attenuate wave action, and improve water quality. Monitoring efforts must extend beyond the immediate factors to encompass broader ecological indicators. In the case of tidal flat rehabilitation through Spartina removal, alongside tracking the invasive species’ prese nce or return, it is imperative to monitor the benthic composition of the restored tidal flat and the return of foraging bird populations. The continuing success of an action, as well as its initial success, is key. This comprehensive approach ensures a holistic evaluation, aligning with the restoration's overarching goals and contributing to the long-term success of the intervention. A practical tool to aid in the evaluation of restoration work is offered by the 5-star Recovery System (www.ser.org/page/SERNews3113) developed by the Society for Ecological Restoration and widely adopted to assess the success of restoration initiatives worldwide. This structured approach allows for assessing and ranking a site's progress towards ecosystem recovery. Using a 5-star scale, it evaluates the similarity of a restored ecosystem to a reference system, providing a comprehensive understanding of recovery. The system allows for overall assessments or individual evaluations of specific ecosystem attributes, promoting continuous improvement. While aimed at achieving full ecosystem recovery, the system is adaptable for projects focusing on specific functional attributes. However, its reliability depends on robust monitoring data, emphasising the importance of comprehensive monitoring plans tailored to each site (McDonald T. et al. , 2016).
11. Adapt the restoration plan: Flexibility and adaptive management
Use monitoring data to inform adaptive management. If the outcomes deviate from expectations, be prepared to adjust the restoration plan accordingly, ensuring a responsive and dynamic approach. This may involve liaison meetings with stakeholders (e.g. annual reviews) to assess the progress, with the option of tweaking the restoration plan, while maintaining the overall objectives. In cases where the predefined target is not attained, further investigation is required to understand whether the discrepancy results from inappropriate restoration actions, insufficient implementation, unrealistic, targets or unforeseen external factors, such as changes in government policy or catastrophic events.
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