Scope of the handbook, target groups and preparation process Riparian forests are among the most threatened terrestrial ecosystems. However, they are rich in biodiversity and have the potential to contribute to the development of local communities. They provide multiple ecosystem services, including habitat for
wildlife and unique animal and plant communities, wood and non-wood forest products, recreational areas for residents and a growing number of tourists, carbon sequestration, and more. Due to their extension along major rivers, many riparian forests are valuable ecological corridors for endangered fauna. With so
many interests associated with the same area, developing forest management and biodiversity conservation options is necessary for riparian forest sustainability. The purpose of this handbook is to provide forest and conservation managers at Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere Reserve and beyond with a guide to manage riparian forests. The handbook covers topics such as a general description of riparian forests and their habitat types, best practices for forest regeneration, genetics, forest and conservation management, and forest health. It is aimed at foresters and conservation practitioners, but also includes sections that may be of interest to non-governmental organisations, citizen initiatives, nurseries and policy makers.
