OBJECTIVE: To provide a detailed/comprehensive training in riparian restoration planning methodology and techniques for southwest ecosystems. The workshop is for conservationists who will be providing both planning, and designing assistance in treating riparian areas in the arid Southwest United States.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Land managers, landowners, researchers, government agencies, consultants, anyone active in riparian restoration.

ON THE AGENDA:
October 14, 9 AM to 4 PM: Field Tour (Optional)
This will be an in-field, hands-on training in planting methods to re-establish native vegetation. Each participant will be involved with planting a variety of shrubs, trees, poles other vegetation using special techniques that will establish plants without irrigation in a hydraulically disconnected flood plain. This tour is limited to the first 30 people, first come served.

October 15, 8 AM – 4 PM: Classroom Training
The training is founded on the science based, “conservation planning process”. This is a four-step process that focuses on:
Step 1 - Developing Project Objectives
Step 2 - Collecting On-site Resource Data: Site location, soils, climate, hydrology, channel condition, plants and wildlife.
Step 3 - Analyzing Riparian Site Conditions: Hydrologic factors, soil erosion and deposition factors, and vegetation factors.

October 16, 8 AM – 12 PM: Classroom Training
Step 4 - Design Consideration: Control of invasive species, streambank and channel stabilization, livestock and wildlife management, shallow and deep water table plantings, criteria for wildlife habitat, maintenance and monitoring.

Planting Scenarios Secession - Pond vegetation treatment, grass seeding, riverbank Willow treatment on sandy soils, perennial streambank vegetation treatment, understory treatment.

Using the Visual Riparian Assessment Tool – The visual riparian tool was developed for use of Natural Resources Conservation Service field office conservationists. An assessment score sheet allows the user to determine whether or not the riparian area is functioning, and in what capacity, and will also direct the user to the elements of concern.

COST: SWCS members receive a $25.00 discount
$10 Tour (includes lunch)
$150 Early Registration – deadline Sept. 15th
$175 Sept 16 – October 1 (on-line registration ends)
$225 Late Registration October 2 – October 15
Includes a lunch (October 15 only) and refreshments breaks during sessions.
***SWCS members receive a $25.00 discount***
Note your SWCS membership number.


Make your reservations on-line at through the National SWCS website: Register Online Here

LODGING: Double Tree Hotel, Downtown Albuquerque - an outstanding hotel. Cost is $75 per night; you must request "SWCS" the room block to get this great price. Call 1-800-584-5058 to make reservations or click here Double Tree Hotel

For more information contact Steve Kadas Steve.Kadas@nm.usda.gov (505.761.4422)