A shoreline screening framework for identifying nature-based stabilization measures reducing storm damage in the Florida Keys
The low‑lying Florida Keys face intensifying threats from storms, erosion and sea‑level rise, prompting growing interest in living shorelines as alternatives to hard armoring. This study develops a decision framework to evaluate stabilization options using a Shoreline Relative Exposure Index that incorporates wind and wave exposure, orientation, slope, bathymetry, nearshore habitat and storm surge. Expert‑derived parameter weights refine the tool, helping determine when vegetated shorelines alone—or combined with structural elements—can effectively reduce wave energy and protect communities. As climate change and population growth heighten flood‑management challenges, the framework supports nature‑based shoreline planning tailored to the Florida Keys’ unique coastal conditions.
Subject Tags
- Climate impacts
- Coastal
- Nature-based solutions
Abstract
With elevations mostly less than 2 m, the Florida Keys, an island chain stretching nearly two hundred kilometers from Biscayne Bay to Key West, Florida, is among the most vulnerable coastal regions globally. As the threats from tropical cyclones, storm surges and sea-level rise intensify, urbanized areas increasingly rely on shoreline armoring, disregarding the negative effects on coastal habitats. Living shorelines, which integrate coastal vegetation to stabilize erodible shoreline segments or enhance existing grey infrastructure, have successfully addressed some of these challenges. We present a decision framework for evaluating the suitability of different stabilization methods for existing shoreline conditions. The framework incorporates a Shoreline Relative Exposure Index (SREI) based on shoreline orientation, wind and wave exposure, shoreline slope, bathymetry, nearshore habitat and storm surge. To refine this framework, we conducted an expert opinion survey to determine parameter weights. The results will inform decisions on using vegetated shorelines alone or with structural elements to reduce wave action, control erosion, and protect Florida Keys communities from storm damage. Implementing innovative shoreline stabilization methods is crucial as climate change and population growth are expected to exacerbate flood management challenges.
Citation
Mitsova, D., Cresswell, K., Bergh, C., Matos, M., Wakefield, S., Freeman, K., & Lima, W. C. (2025). A Shoreline Screening Framework for Identifying Nature-Based Stabilization Measures Reducing Storm Damage in the Florida Keys. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 13(3), 543. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13030543
TNC Authors
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Chris Bergh
Field Program Director, Florida
The Nature Conservancy
Email: cbergh@tnc.org -
Kathleen Freeman
GIS Manager, Florida
The Nature Conservancy
Email: kfreeman@tnc.org