A Salt Marsh Advancement Zone Assessment of East Haven, Connecticut
This report evaluates salt marsh advancement in East Haven, Connecticut using The Nature Conservancy’s Coastal Resilience Program. It identifies future marsh migration areas, current land use, and priority parcels to support planning, reduce flood risk, and sustain natural infrastructure.
Subject Tags
- Climate resilience
- Coastal
- Conservation Planning
Introduction
This report assesses salt marsh advancement zones in East Haven, Connecticut using tools developed through The Nature Conservancy’s Coastal Resilience Program. Established in 2006, the program helps communities evaluate flooding scenarios from sea level rise and storm surge, and understand ecological, social, and economic impacts. This study applies a salt marsh advancement model to identify where marsh habitats are expected to migrate upslope as sea levels rise. It evaluates current land use and highlights key parcels needed to sustain natural infrastructure and reduce hazard risk. Findings support planning, restoration, and policy development to maintain wetlands, floodplains, and coastal ecosystems. The report reinforces the importance of natural infrastructure in reducing flood impacts, protecting communities, and improving long term resilience across East Haven and Connecticut.
Citation
Ryan, A. and A. W. Whelchel. 2014. A Salt Marsh Advancement Zone Assessment of East Haven, Connecticut. The Nature Conservancy, Coastal Resilience Program. Publication Series #1-Q, New Haven, Connecticut.