2005 Annual Report 4d.Progress report. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the parent project 6408-13000-015-00D, Environmentally Sound Stream Corridor Rehibilition and Management in Agricultural Watersheds. This report serves to document research conducted under a Reimbursable Agreement between ARS and the University of Memphis. Planting woody vegetation along streams is an economically attractive method for restoring riparian zones and the attendant water quality and habitat benefits. Scientists from the University of Memphis in collaboration with ARS scientists designed and conducted experiments to develop techniques for improving success of willow planting. A synthesis of field experiments conducted over an 8-year period shows that willow cutting growth and survival is governed by soil texture and moisture, with cuttings performing best in sandy, moist soils usually found at elevations on eroding banks that are intermediate to bank toe and top bank. Laboratory experiments showed that cutting survival and growth, particularly when subjected to harsh environmental conditions, is best for cuttings about 1 cm in diameter. Larger and smaller diameter cuttings were less prolific and robust. These findings are useful to landowners and riparian zone managers seeking to control streambank erosion and restore wooded riparian zones and forested buffers.