Co-developing Nature-based Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Rural Coastal Communities: Case of Refugio County, Texas
Implementing Organization
National Wildlife Federation
Overview
DWH Project Funding
$100,000
Known Leveraged Funding
$0
Funding Organization
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine – Gulf Research Program (NASEM - GRP)
Funding Program
NASEM Gulf Research Program Grants
Details
Project Category
Science
Project Actions
Environmental Research
Targeted Resources
Project Description
Refugio County serves as a case for coastal rural counties across the Gulf Coast that are facing higher than average threats to climate-induced sea level rise, further exacerbated by their demographic challenges: a declining population with higher rates of older and unemployed residents, high immigrant Hispanic population, and a natural-resource-dependent economy. The natural features of Refugio County play a dual role of supporting local fishing and tourism-based economy while reducing vulnerability due to their protective benefits, it is important to preserve them. The potential nature-based solutions (NBS) in the county can help balance climate vulnerabilities, strengthen natural features to withstand these impacts, support long-term development goals, and most importantly, meet the needs of socially vulnerable and marginalized groups. As the county develops its coastline, an NBS project will be a sound and timely investment to embed nature-based considerations among various stakeholders and ensure new developments and infrastructure do not exacerbate existing climate risks through inappropriate siting and land use decisions. National Wildlife Federation (NWF) will leverage its topical NBS expertise and build upon its local climate adaptation efforts in the Texas Mid-Coast to co-develop an NBS project in Refugio County. Through partnerships with Harte Research Institute and the Refugio County Judge, NWF will bring together multiple and diverse stakeholders to create a scientifically sound and community-driven project. This project aligns with NWF’s core values of environmental justice and equity and will ensure communities of color and low-income groups are at the forefront of this work.
Contact
Arsum PathakNone
PathakA@nwf.org
Project Website
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