Meeting freshwater objectives under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework will require an acceleration in the pace of environmental flow restoration (i.e., restoring some or all of the aspects of the natural flow regime in altered lotic systems). Here we highlight three flow restoration approaches with opportunities for growth, and note research needs associated with each. (1) Multipurpose floodplain reconnection. There is substantial scope to expand the use of nature-based solutions (e.g., “levee setbacks”) that reconnect rivers with floodplains to reduce flood risk, restore river-floodplain flow connectivity, and provide other services. A key research need is to better characterize tradeoffs in the location and design of such projects to maximize desired benefits. (2) Water source-switching to maintain flows during droughts. In the Flint River Basin of Georgia, farmers are installing deeper wells to access alternative groundwater sources during drought periods to reduce pressure on surface waters to protect imperiled mussels. A key research need for guiding policy is to understand population and ecosystem responses to low flows, which generally requires long-term monitoring. (3) Converting from hydropeaking to quasi-run-of-river hydropower operation. Historically, electric utilities have used hydropeaking reservoirs as giant batteries that can be switched on during peak demand periods. However, expansion of solar power and improvement in battery technology means that alternative sources of peak power are increasingly available. Converting dam operations to run-of-river could provide extensive habitat restoration opportunities, but currently there are limited incentives for power companies to make this change. A key research need is to develop the science and policy for biodiversity credit programs, including biodiversity accounting schemes that are science-based, broadly applicable, and minimize unintended consequences.