Projects

Nature-based flood protection in Belle Haven

Salt marsh wetlands in Accomack County, VA. Credit: Rachel Felver/Chesapeake Bay Program.

The Challenge

Wetland migration is the natural inland shift of wetlands in response to changes in sea level. Wetlands are crucial for protecting built infrastructure against flooding. A phenomenon called "coastal squeeze" occurs when obstructions block wetland migration and cause them to shrink or disappear over time.

The Project

VCC and Flood Hazards Research Lab flood experts are analyzing properties in the Belle Haven area that are being impacted by wetland migration and how many of those homes are repetitive flood loss properties. Further, the research aims to discover the feasibility of harnessing the natural process of wetland migration as a nature-based flood protection method for this residential area.

Who’s Involved?

This work is led by VCC flood expert Celso Ferreira in collaboration with Fairfax County.