Regional‐scale ecological processes, such as the spatial flows of material, energy,
and organisms, are fundamental for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functioning
in river networks. Yet these processes remain largely overlooked in most river management
practices and underlying policies. Here, we propose adoption of a meta‐system approach,
where regional processes acting at different levels of ecological organization – populations,
communities, and ecosystems – are integrated into conventional river conservation,
restoration, and biomonitoring. We also describe a series of measurements and indicators
that could be assimilated into the implementation of relevant biodiversity and environmental
policies. Finally, we highlight the need for alternative management strategies that
can guide practitioners toward applying recent advances in ecology to preserve and
restore river ecosystems and the ecosystem services they provide, in the context of
increasing alteration of river network connectivity worldwide.
