Nature-Based Shore Projects

Oral

1429 - Evaluating The Capacity Of Natural And Nature-Based Features To Reduce Coastal Storm Hazards

Presenting Author(s)

• 

  Bret Webb, PhD, P.E., D.CE, M.ASCE

  Professor
  University of South Alabama

Additional Author #1(s)

• SS

  Steven Scyphers

Additional Author #2(s)

• JC

  Just Cebrian

Additional Author #3(s)

• RG

  Rachel Gittman

Additional Author #4(s)

• SS

  Shailesh Sharma

Additional Author #5(s)

• 

  Julie Rosati, PhD, PE

  Technical Director
  U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

This presentation and paper describes the capacity of natural and nature-based features (NNBF) to reduce coastal storm hazards. Through a synthesis of existing literature and studies, as well as meta-analysis and traditional data analysis where possible, the salient characteristics and capabilities of NNBF at reducing storm surge, wave action, and erosion are characterized. The research specifically focuses on the capacity of aquatic vegetation, oyster and coral reefs, beaches, dunes, maritime forests, and barrier islands to reduce and/or mitigate these coastal hazards under present day sea levels.