W3 seminar: Natural and nature-based features for coastal resilience

March 2, 2022
"Natural and nature-based features for coastal resilience"
Bret Webb, Professor, Civil, Coastal, and Environmental Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL

Abstract:
With approximately 14% of the U.S. shoreline now armored, and much larger proportions of armoring along urban estuary shorelines, the need for adopting Natural and Nature-Based Features (NNBF) in environmental management and regulation policies is growing more important. This presentation will summarize some of the best available science describing the physical performance and resilience of NNBF, including quantitative information where available. Significant knowledge gaps and implementation challenges will also be highlighted. Published literature suggests that there are some existing methods for quantifying the effects of NNBF on storm surge, waves, and erosion. For example, the published literature contains references to the wave tolerance and attenuating capabilities of aquatic vegetation, maritime forests, and reef systems. However, with few exceptions these capabilities have not been described in an engineering or risk-based context. A notable exception is our understanding of the protection that a coastal dune provides against coastal storm surge (and waves). Our community of professionals—in academia and practice—should look for opportunities to expand similar risk-based formulations to other common NNBF for the purpose of engineering design.