​PBR is a riverscape restoration practice that focuses on restoring and promoting the natural processes that lead to improved watershed health over time. Once the underlying "source" issues in a riverscape have been identified, PBR practitioners may utilize different methods to address the natural process they want to restore within a specific reach or habitat. PBR generally utilizes a mix of Beaver Dam Analogs and Post Assisted Log Structures to slow the flow of water and address erosion, water availability, and quality concerns. Implementation of these in-stream structures can improve habitat complexity and resource availability needs for salmonids and amphibians, as well as basking habitat for reptiles such as western pond turtle. The implementation of these instream structures can also positively affect sediment transport dynamics and create deep pools, thus creating favorable habitat conditions for salmonid reproduction. In short- the overall goal of PBR is to restore the natural processes of a watershed so that it is then self-sustainable. 

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At Wet Meadows, we are currently utilizing the methods and core ideology of PBR to develop protocols for migratory and game bird habitat restoration using structures we've dubbed, "quail habitat analogs" - so far, implementation of these structures have proven successful in supporting populations of California quail as well as a myriad of migratory songbirds and small mammals. We look forward to continuing exploration of these terrestrial restoration structures and welcome any inquiries if you would like to involve your lands in our pilot initiative for upland habitat restoration.

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If you would like to learn more about Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration, please visit our dedicated information page here!