ENHANCING RIVER VEGETATION - CONSERVATION, DEVELOPMENT AND RESTORATION

The welcome increase in projects increasing river vegetation prompts t heoretical consideration. To restore is to bring back what was there b efore - but at what period? 1860 to 1940 is suggested, as 'traditional '. Traditional rivers differ greatly between river types and between r ivers: in water, structural and biotic characters, and Sense of Place. Aiming at these, holistically, is aiming at restoration. Aiming at pa rt, or trying to convert rivers to a Standard Recommended river is, at best, enhancement. The latter development lessens the unique variety and special features of rivers that are the heritage of each country.