Print PageEcological restoration is a priority in ecosystems where invasive species are abundant. However, restoration can be difficult when invasive species have had large impacts on ecosystem properties and land-use has caused significant environmental degradation. Restoration is also challenging in landscapes where resources are limited and plant growth is slow. We developed tools to assess restoration potential and aid restoration planning for a dry forest landscape in Hawaii. This area provides habitat for many threatened and endangered species, is at risk of further damage by fire fueled by invasive grasses, and is the focus of extensive management and restoration efforts.
Results/Conclusions
We developed restoration indicator variables from light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and spectroscopic measurements from the Carnegie Airborne Observatory (CAO). Specifically, we used analyses of fire fuels, topography, and tree density derived from the CAO data combined with field microclimate measurements to identify areas with the greatest need for restoration and areas with high potential for restoration success. Areas in need of restoration had conditions favorable to the spread of wildfire. Areas with high potential for restoration success had conditions favorable for plant growth, such as reduced wind speeds, greater water availability, and greater shade. We developed restoration planning tools for three ecosystems and identified areas of the landscape suitable for different restoration targets, including restoration for native biodiversity, endangered plant populations, and fire prevention.
