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2. Riverbanks and Watersheds
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The 3R2N riverbank initiative examined and recorded riverbank conditions at 1/10-mile intervals along all three rivers. The watershed initiative uses contemporary landscape ecology theory to inform the analysis of existing forest cover in Allegheny County.

• Botanists examined woody plant communities and invasive species along the rivers.
  
• Geologists examined slope and material content of the riverbanks and floodplains.
  
• Planners examined the current scope and scale of forest cover as well as its value in terms of interconnected interior forests and corridors.

Our natural science terrestrial team was assembled to provide the first comprehensive overview of the condition and recovery of nature along our region. In 2004 we developed and field proofed the final integration of data from the 3R2N geology and botany studies with the regional forestry themes and USDA soil themes (GIS systems databases) provided to us by Allegheny County. The result is a rigorous geo-spatial database that identifies natural systems worth preserving, as well as those natural systems with the best possible potential of recovery through the application of preservation and conservation strategies where possible and restoration ecology tactics where neccesary. This work covered areas from the rivers edge up into the stream corridors.

In 2004, the primary question was how can this innovative database be used in the planning and management of ecosystems in a sprawling post-industrial region? What values could be identified that have not as yet been addressed but integrate well with existing policy and regulation? What green infrastructure values are being undermined by existing policy and regulation? Working from a 1993 "Allegheny County Riverfront Policy Plan" we developed work that was primarily focused upon green infrastructure values. Working with a land-use policy expert, we were able to develop a series of standard actions that municipalities might want to consider. Identifying issues like public safety in terms of soil erosion and potential construction failures in steep slope environments is one way to achieve green infrastructure goals without appealing directly to environmental interests. Other more instrumental environmental approaches are discussed as well.

The final riverbanks and watershed plan identifies the scope and scale of natural systems recovery and illustrates its need for stewardship and restoration. Goals of the plan include:

• Expand existing planning documentation so they refer to natural systems recovery
  
• Develop concept designs and an action plan for restorative redevelopment.

3. River Dialogues and the Monongahela Conference->

-Henri Lefebvre

Funding provided by the
Heinz Endowments, the Warhol Foundation, the Pittsburgh Foundation, and other anonymous sources