DNREC, DNERR collaborate on new national study examining sea level rise in tidal marshes – Delaware.gov
Article Synopsis – The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) recently collaborated with 15 other National Estuarine Research Reserves in 13 coastal states on a first-in-the-nation research study that examined the capabilities of tidal marshes to keep pace with sea level rise. The study included a tidal marsh resiliency assessment of DNERR’s St. Jones Reserve in Dover. As a low-lying state, Delaware is highly vulnerable to the effects of sea level rise. Tidal marshes provide the first line of defense for nearby communities – protecting people and property against storm surges and flooding and improving water quality. The St. Jones Reserve was found to be moderately resilient to sea level rise, however it was also found to be vulnerable to the increased rate of sea level rise, so the future ability to adapt to rising seas is in question. To read the actual article click here.