Nature-Based Solutions Case Study

Cobble Beach, Berm, and Dune Enhancements: Pacific Coast, OR

State/Territory: Oregon

Oregon DOT designed several nature-based solutions to protect the 363-mile-long Oregon Coast Highway (U.S. 101) from extreme events and coastal bluff erosion. Three demonstration sites were selected, where cobble beaches were restored to enhance natural wave protection along the backshore. Additional features included a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall with planted terraces at Beverly Beach, a cobble beach seaward of an artificial dune at Lost Creek, and MSE slopes with sand-filled geotextile cores at Ona Beach. Oregon DOT selected a high-range sea level rise scenario to 2050 along with a 100-year return period storm event as the basis for their design.

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Habitat Types

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Coastal Habitats

Strategies

Nature-based strategies examined in this case study.

Dune Restoration

Beach Nourishment

Top Outcomes

Climate threat reduction, ecological benefits, or social & economic benefit goals obtained in this case. Click to search for case studies with similar outcomes.

Adapt to Sea Level Rise

Protect Property and Infrastructure

Reduce Coastal Flooding

Reduce Erosion

Sourcing

Case study originally found at: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sustainability/resilience/ongoing_and_current_research/green_infrastructure/implementation_guide/fhwahep19042.pdf