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Nature-Based Solutions Tools Search

This database contains over 400 tools and resources that can help guide practitioners at various stages of the nature-based solutions project cycle. Use the filters to identify the tools and resources most useful to you.

You can filter the full list by the habitat type you’re working in, the nature-based solutions strategy you want to use, the project phase you are looking for help with, or the type of tool/resource you’re looking for.

The tools and resources shown here were gathered through a robust search of both federal and non-federal sources. We recognize that this library will never be completely comprehensive, but if you know of an important missing tool or resource, please email nesp@duke.edu.

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This instructor-led course prepares participants to successfully plan/implement green/natural infrastrcuture projects in their coastal communities. It includes a self-guided virtual module and an in-person event where participants work with local experts to develop a green infrastructure strategy. An online version of the course is offered.

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This virtual training describes the types, benefits of, and barriers to NBS establishment, how to integrate NBS into existing community plans, and how to resource and implement NBS strategies.

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Comprised of key takeaways from 4 peer exchanges across the U.S., this report summarizes key recommendations and challenges in the permitting, design, monitoring, maintenance, and funding phases of NBS deployment in coastal highway resilience projects.

This resource repository includes 3 guides to using NBS to mitigate natural hazards, and includes resources detailing types of NBS, assistance with the planning process, compliance/permitting, funding sources,and trainings through FEMA and FEMA's partners.

Detailed guide to planning, design, construction, and maintenance of constructed and restored salt marshes. Intended as a how-to guide for those new to marsh restoration or as a reference for experienced practitioners.

This page links to several tools and resources state and local communities can use to explore renewable energy implementation. This includes benefit calculation tools (through tax rebates and incentive programs), a data-driven decarbonization plan implementaiton platform, state-by-state energy ranking comparison tools, links to techncial assistance programs, energy programs, renewable energy initatives. 

This is reference document explains/lists the different types of projects eligible to receive assistance from the CWSRF program.

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The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program mobilizes over 200 field biologists to provide private landowners with free technical and financial assistance to imrpove habitat conservation on their land. This includes: the planning, implementation, and monitoring of projects; partner and funding identification; and permitting guidance.

This document outlines a 5-step process to effectively design, plan, and implement tidal wetland restoration in the region betwee Maine to Virginia. Developed during a NOAA Restoration Center workshop, it details how to: predict relative sea level rise, gather relevant information, conduct sea level rise impact analysis, incorporate said analysis into project design, and implement maintenance and monitoring on the tidal wetland restoration projects.

Guidance for stormwater park planning and design, including information on engaging with communities, working with consultants, and post-construction operations.

Tips for how to plant a successful pollinator garden. Includes pollinator garden designs for various site conditions.

NBS Strategies:

This guidebook is an overview of best practices to promote healthy pollinator populations on federal lands. It is not specific to pollinator garden creation, but includes information that is helpful to those creating pollinator-friendly habitat.

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NBS Strategies:

This page explains NOAA's appraoch to techncial support for habitat restoration projects.

Guide to designing and constructing a rain garden, including maintenance and trouble-shooting.

With a special emphasis on the role climate change plays in shaping riverine systems, this resource provides information on how to plan and enact a river restoration project. With numerous case studies of successful riverine connectivity projects, the guidebook provides insights into designing an effective plan.

Details on seeding big sagebrush, including site evaluation, pretreatment, seed testing and storage, germination, seeding techniques, and postseeding management and monitoring.

In-person class on sagebrush restoration, including planning, techniques, and monitoring.

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This guide is targeted at landowners who want to transform their degraded grasslands into conservation prairies. It gives high-level guidance and helps set expectations for what such a project might entail.

The authors lay out a simple framework for planning and installing riparian restoration projects. With a focus on maintenance, other topics covered include design considerations and planting in developed environments.

Held in San Diego, this two-day in-person training teaches participants the fundamentals of arid wetland restoration site selection, planning, and installation. The class takes field trips to successful restoration projects in the region in addition to identifying common mistakes.

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