The present and future role of coastal wetland vegetation in protecting shorelines: answering recent challenges to the paradigm |
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Authors: | Keryn B Gedan Matthew L Kirwan Eric Wolanski Edward B Barbier Brian R Silliman |
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Institution: | 1.Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology,Brown University,Providence,USA;2.U.S. Geological Survey, Department of Environmental Sciences,University of Virginia,Charlottesville,USA;3.James Cook University,Townsville,Australia;4.Australian Institute of Marine Science,Townsville,Australia;5.Department of Economics and Finance,University of Wyoming,Laramie,USA;6.Department of Biology,University of Florida,Gainesville,USA |
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Abstract: | For more than a century, coastal wetlands have been recognized for their ability to stabilize shorelines and protect coastal
communities. However, this paradigm has recently been called into question by small-scale experimental evidence. Here, we
conduct a literature review and a small meta-analysis of wave attenuation data, and we find overwhelming evidence in support
of established theory. Our review suggests that mangrove and salt marsh vegetation afford context-dependent protection from
erosion, storm surge, and potentially small tsunami waves. In biophysical models, field tests, and natural experiments, the
presence of wetlands reduces wave heights, property damage, and human deaths. Meta-analysis of wave attenuation by vegetated
and unvegetated wetland sites highlights the critical role of vegetation in attenuating waves. Although we find coastal wetland
vegetation to be an effective shoreline buffer, wetlands cannot protect shorelines in all locations or scenarios; indeed large-scale
regional erosion, river meandering, and large tsunami waves and storm surges can overwhelm the attenuation effect of vegetation.
However, due to a nonlinear relationship between wave attenuation and wetland size, even small wetlands afford substantial
protection from waves. Combining man-made structures with wetlands in ways that mimic nature is likely to increase coastal
protection. Oyster domes, for example, can be used in combination with natural wetlands to protect shorelines and restore
critical fishery habitat. Finally, coastal wetland vegetation modifies shorelines in ways (e.g. peat accretion) that increase
shoreline integrity over long timescales and thus provides a lasting coastal adaptation measure that can protect shorelines
against accelerated sea level rise and more frequent storm inundation. We conclude that the shoreline protection paradigm
still stands, but that gaps remain in our knowledge about the mechanistic and context-dependent aspects of shoreline protection. |
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