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A Salt Marsh Advancement Zone Assessment of Darien, Connecticut

Report

Connecticut

Publication date: January 1, 2006

File format: PDF

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This report evaluates salt marsh advancement in Darien, Connecticut using The Nature Conservancy’s Coastal Resilience Program and modeling tools. It identifies future marsh migration areas, current land use, and priority parcels to support planning, reduce flood risk, and sustain natural infrastructure.

Subject Tags

  • Coastal
  • Climate resilience
  • Conservation Planning

Abstract

This report assesses salt marsh advancement zones in Darien, Connecticut using tools developed through The Nature Conservancy’s Coastal Resilience Program. Since 2006, the program has supported communities in evaluating flooding scenarios from sea level rise and storm surge, and understanding ecological and socio economic impacts. This study applies a salt marsh advancement model to identify where marsh habitats are expected to migrate upslope in response to rising sea levels. It evaluates current land use and highlights critical parcels needed to sustain natural infrastructure and reduce hazard risk. Findings support forward looking planning, restoration, and policy development to protect wetlands, floodplains, and coastal ecosystems. The report emphasizes the role of natural infrastructure in improving community resilience, reducing flooding impacts, and maintaining ecosystem services across Darien and the broader Connecticut coastline.

Citation

Ryan, A. and A. W. Whelchel. 2014. A Salt Marsh Advancement Zone Assessment of Darien, Connecticut. The Nature Conservancy, Coastal Resilience Program. Publication Series #1-K, New Haven, Connecticut.