Nature-Based Adaptation

The Objective

Support planning, design, permitting, implementation, education, and/or community-based restoration activities to address the risks and impacts of climate change and sea level rise; and to further advance nature-based adaptation solutions to protect and enhance the Marin County bay shoreline and natural resources.

The Issue

The impacts of climate change, specifically sea level rise, will be exacerbated in ecosystems that are less intact and functional, including subtidal environments and baylands habitats. Many low-income people and people of color reside in low-lying coastal areas that are susceptible to flooding, which will become more severe as storm surges increase and sea levels rise. The next 15 years are a critical time to test and implement new restoration practices to increase the ability of shoreline habitat to continue to serve as a critical asset in flood protection.

Our Approach

Nature-based adaptation, while an emerging field, is seen as having great potential to mitigate the effects of sea level rise. This initiative will support small to moderate, high priority restoration projects located within Marin that advance regional baylands ecosystem habitat goals, particularly ‘living shoreline’ concepts, including native oyster and eelgrass habitats, and tidal marshes.

At the same time, this innovative approach will support the education and engagement of the public, particularly under-served youth and directly-impacted communities, in restoration efforts, where possible. It will also support capacity building among critical partners in order to translate scientific data and analysis into practical solutions for broader implementation.

Grantmaking

This initiative is a partnership between the Buck Family Fund of MCF and the California State Coastal Conservancy. Funding for new projects will not be available after the 2019 application cycle. For information about other potential resources available through the Coastal Conservancy, contact Marilyn Latta, Project Manager, State Coastal Conservancy, at Marilyn.Latta@scc.ca.gov or 510-286-4157.