Theories and Practices of Urban River Restoration in the Perspective of Green Infrastructure: The Case of Seattle

Urbanization leads to canalization and ecosystem degradation of urban rivers. Ecological restoration would reestablish urban river dynamics, thus improve river ecosystem function and urban watershed health. This paper summarizes the definition and methods of urban river restoration. Through case study of several restoration projects in Seattle, it explores the integration of the restoration design with urban functions and stormwater management and assessed their outcomes and values. Some findings are highlighted. River restorations promote urban watershed connectivity and work as potential links and nodes of the green infrastructure network. The small cumulative restorations under urban constraints provide opportunities for urban sustainable development and community revitalization. Stakeholder’s participation and collaboration are key to the advance of restoration. Assessing restoration should consider multiple objectives and values. These lessons are valuable to the current ecological restoration and urban enhancement projects in China, promoting sustainable urban transformation. 关键词: 河道修复;绿色基础设施;城市流域;生态系统;社会效益