Use of Natural and Nature-Based Features (NNBF) for coastal resilience

Coastal systems are increasingly vulnerable to flooding due to thecombined influence of coastal storms, development and populationgrowth, geomorphic change, and sea level rise. This reality has given riseto efforts to make greater use of ecosystem-based approaches to reducerisks from coastal storms, approaches which draw from the capacity ofwetlands, beaches and dunes,biogenic reefs, and other natural features toreduce the impacts of storm surge and waves. This report offers detailsregarding the use of natural and nature-based features (NNBF) to improvecoastal resilience and was designed to support post-Hurricane Sandyrecovery efforts under the North Atlantic Coast Comprehensive Study(NACCS). An integrative framework is offered herein that focuses onclassifying NNBF, characterizing vulnerability, developing performancemetrics, incorporating regional sediment management, monitoring andadaptively managing from a systems perspective, and addressing keypolicy challenges. As progress is made on these and other actions acrossthe many organizations contributing to the use of NNBF, implementationof the full array of measures available will reduce the risks and enhancethe resilience of the region's coastal systems.DISCLAIMER:The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes.Citation of trade names does notconstitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products.Allproduct names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not tobe construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents.DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN NO LONGER NEEDED. DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR.