Work

Overcoming barriers and uncertainties to investing in forested watershed restoration in California

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction Large-scale investments in restoring California’s forested watersheds are imperative for conserving biodiversity, enhancing water quality, and mitigating the future impacts of climate change. This study explores the underlying incentives, major challenges, and potential strategies associated with such investments. Methods An online survey was administered to 43 experts in the field to gather their insights on forest watershed restoration investments. The collected responses were then analyzed using a combination of confirmatory factor analysis and regression analysis to elucidate patterns and relationships. Results The analysis revealed that key environmental outcomes, such as reducing wildfire risks and protecting water supplies, are the principal motivators driving investment. At the same time, significant barriers emerged, including high costs, limited workforce capacity, and insufficient trust among stakeholders. The study also identified a series of effective strategies to overcome these obstacles, such as repositioning forest restoration as an infrastructure investment and clearly demonstrating its ecological, social, and economic benefits. Discussion Overall, the findings underscore the need for more flexible funding frameworks, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and improved data infrastructures. By addressing these elements, policymakers and practitioners can pave the way for more resilient and sustainable forested-watershed ecosystems in California.

Source: Frontiers in Forests and Global Change

DOI: 10.3389/ffgc.2025.1587763

Authors: Lacour Mody Ayompe, Lace Padilla, Max Eriksson, Benis N. Egoh, Roger C. Bales

Institutions: University of California, Irvine, Northeastern University, University of Klagenfurt, University of California, Merced, University of California, Berkeley

Language: English

Topic: Forest Management and Policy

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353