River Profiles: The People Restoring Our Waterways

American waterways have suffered from centuries of mismanagement and destructive development, but passionate individuals are working to restore them. Pete Hill's book profiles practitioners, scientists, and activists who are taking part in restoration efforts, illustrating the challenges and rewards of river restoration and the evolving scientific understanding in the field.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 09 April 2024
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Centuries of mismanagement and destructive development have caused severe harm to American waterways, impacting ecosystems and communities. However, a dedicated group of passionate individuals has emerged to restore streams and rivers across the United States. In Pennsylvania, a husband-and-wife scientist team is leading projects to remove sediment left by early colonist dams, while the Tulalip Tribes in Washington State are reintroducing beavers to headwater streams. A public servant in Milwaukee is driving the sewer department to remove concrete channels and reduce flood risk. Community activists in Atlanta are advocating for environmental justice in river restoration efforts.

Pete Hill, a veteran in watershed restoration for twenty years, delves into the world of river and stream conservation in his book. He profiles practitioners, scientists, and activists from various backgrounds who are involved in restoration efforts, exploring their diverse approaches. Through their stories, Hill highlights the challenges and rewards of river restoration and the evolving scientific understanding in the field. He emphasizes the importance of adopting strategies tailored to local contexts, drawing inspiration from a wide range of individuals, including those operating machinery and those researching stream ecology. Indigenous knowledge plays a vital role in these restoration efforts, offering valuable resources.

This book is a personal and informative journey, combining insight and inspiration. It sheds light on the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to heal our streams and rivers, showcasing the power of collective action and the potential for positive change. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and restoring our natural ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generations.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231207645