Citizen-engaged research for improved perceptions of riparian systems

Abstract

Riparian zones are vital ecological corridors that provide flood regulation, water purification, habitat diversity, and carbon storage. Yet persistent biases—such as the belief that riparian vegetation causes flooding—continue to shape policy and public opinion. Rooted in historical practices of dredging and river “cleaning,” and reinforced by political and media narratives, these biases obscure scientific evidence and hinder sustainable management. The Emilia-Romagna floods (2023–2024) illustrate how riparian forests are often scapegoated, while the true drivers of risk—urban encroachment, land-use change, and climate intensification—remain overlooked. This open letter calls for a transition from short-term interventions toward long-term resilience strategies that restore floodplains and give rivers space. We highlight the role of citizen science, through projects such as OTTERS and the RiVe method, in bridging science, policy, and society. By involving communities in monitoring and decision-making, citizen science fosters trust, enhances evidence-based policies, and promotes ecological restoration.