San Juan Bay Estuary Program Assesses Vulnerability & Targets Adaptation Measures

The San Juan Bay Estuary Program (SJBEP) conducted a risk determination and vulnerability assessment for the San Juan Bay estuary. They also engaged the communities that live and work around the bay through workshops and on-site discussions. The estuary program is now implementing measures to improve the resiliency of coastal wetlands and coral reefs. 

Using Novel Approaches to Create Resilient Dune Systems Following Hurricane Maria

In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria caused extensive damage to Puerto Rico’s already threatened dune system. After data collection and analysis steps, the team at Vida Marine chose high priority sites to implement restoration projects. These methods include vegetation plantings, new boardwalks to redirect foot traffic, public signage, and sand-trapping devices.  

Out of Harm's Way: Relocation Strategies to Reduce Flood Risk

The city of Kinston, North Carolina experienced devastating flood losses in the 1990s. After a string of three hurricanes flooded or damaged over 75% of homes in Lenoir county, Kinston took action to improve flood resiliency. The city purchased flood-prone properties and relocated neighborhoods to higher ground. This restored natural floodplain functions. 

Dune Restoration Increases Flood Protection & Access for Community

This project is testing the effectiveness of dune restoration as a tactic for combatting sea-level rise and erosion in Southern California. Sand dunes were constructed from locally dredged material and planted with native vegetation. It is projected that this project will successfully protect the shoreline from flooding with no additional sand maintenance until 2050.  

Two Harbors: Investments in Green Infrastructure Pay Off

Following a 100-year rain storm in 1999, city officials of Two Harbors, Minnesota were concerned by the devastating flood damages to infrastructure, properties, roads, and water ways. They designed stormwater management plan emphasizing green infrastructure development. All togather, the city built three flood control basins, two streambank stabilization projects, and a rain garden.

The Nature Conservancy — Wetlands Restoration for Ecosystem and Community Resilience in He’eia O’ahu

To restore a degraded but historically, culturally, and ecologically important watershed on O‘ahu’s Eastern Coast, The Nature Conservancy collaborated with local partners aiming to restore 405 acres of wetlands and promote traditional Hawaiian agricultural practices. The project involves removing invasive red mangroves, replanting native plants, and restoring natural stream flow.