Valuing the Flood Reduction Benefits of Marsh Restoration in the San Francisco Bay
This policy brief examines the flood reduction benefits of marsh restoration in San Mateo County, California. Using flood and economic models, the study shows how restored salt marshes reduce flooding, protect communities and infrastructure, and deliver increasing economic benefits as sea levels rise, supporting climate resilience and nature based solutions.
Subject Tags
- Climate adaptation
- Nature-based solutions
- Coastal
Overview
This policy brief evaluates the social and economic value of salt marsh restoration as a nature based solution for reducing coastal flood risk in San Mateo County and the San Francisco Bay, California. The study uses advanced flood modeling and economic analysis to assess how marsh restoration can protect people, property, and critical infrastructure from storm driven flooding and sea level rise. Results show that restoring approximately 7,200 acres of marsh habitat can significantly reduce flood impacts while generating substantial economic benefits that increase as sea levels rise. The analysis highlights areas with the greatest potential return on investment, including sites near San Francisco International Airport, where restoration can provide exceptionally high flood protection benefits per acre. Beyond reducing flood risk, restored marshes offer additional benefits such as carbon sequestration, improved water quality, wildlife habitat, recreation opportunities, and stronger community resilience. The report demonstrates how investing in natural infrastructure can complement traditional flood defenses and support long term climate adaptation planning.
Citation
Taylor-Burns, R., Heard, S., Beck, M. W. (2022) Valuing the Flood Reduction Benefits of Marshes in the San Francisco Bay. Policy Brief. The Nature Conservancy.