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Short Abstract

Citizen science can enhance awareness of the ecological value of riparian vegetation. Through the RiVe method, citizens help monitor riparian forests, reduce management biases, and support more sustainable and evidence-based river management policies.

Abstract

Rivers are natural connectors, linking mountains to plains and rural landscapes to urban areas—if they are allowed enough space to maintain their ecological functions. Despite the well-established importance of riparian vegetation for river health, biodiversity, and landscape stability, no European directive, including the Water Framework Directive (WFD), currently requires a mandatory assessment of riparian ecosystems.

In many countries, the management of riparian vegetation remains affected by misconceptions and biases, leading to unsustainable or counterproductive interventions. Citizen science offers an effective way to address this issue by engaging local communities in monitoring activities that combine environmental education, data collection, and advocacy for sustainable management practices.

This contribution presents preliminary results from the RiVe methodology, a participatory approach designed to assess the structure and ecological condition of riparian forests through citizen-based observations. The collected data were used to evaluate riparian vegetation health, identify pressures, and enhance public understanding of these transitional ecosystems.

The findings suggest that citizen participation not only improves the knowledge base on riparian zones but also fosters dialogue between citizens, researchers, and policymakers. Ultimately, this approach may contribute to highlighting the ecological and social relevance of riparian vegetation, promoting its integration into river management and restoration policies.