Nature-Based Solutions for Coastal Resilience

Abstract

Coastal communities are dealing with multiple threats from more frequent and intense storms, rising sea levels, and increased flooding. Virginia’s Coastal Resilience Master Planning Framework defines resilience as “the capability to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from significant multi-hazard threats with minimum damage to social well-being, health, the economy, and the environment.” Nature-based solutions feature prominently in Virginia’s strategies to ensure a resilient, thriving coast for future generations. Nature-based solutions for coastal resilience include protecting natural resources plus adding engineered habitats and restoration practices where development has replaced natural features. Collectively, these are referred to as Natural and Nature-Based Features, or NNBFs. Green infrastructure is a similar term used to describe connected networks of natural and human-built features designed to protect valuable community assets. Coastal forests, wetlands, beaches, dunes, restored streams, riparian buffers and living shorelines provide multiple benefits for coastal communities, including storm protection, soaking up floodwaters, improving water quality, providing recreation areas and maintaining important habitats. Virginia has emphasized nature-based solutions in several management programs because of their effectiveness and economic benefits for society have proven to be worthwhile investments. Protected and restored natural features can reduce the cost of flood insurance, improve water quality for economic and social gains, plus help achieve Chesapeake Bay restoration goals. Localities that plan for community-scale implementation of nature-based solutions can qualify to receive support from Virginia’s Community Flood Preparedness Fund. This issue provides information and guidance to help citizens and localities implement nature-based solutions for coastal resilience.