Building Coastal Resilience Research Capacity in North Carolina
GrantID: 2296
Grant Funding Amount Low: $3,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $3,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Coastal Resilience Challenges in North Carolina
North Carolina's coastal regions are increasingly vulnerable to severe weather events, including hurricanes and flooding, driven by rising sea levels and climate change. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the state's coastline has experienced significant erosion and habitat loss, resulting in diminished protective barriers against storm surges. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality reports that the number of North Carolina communities affected by coastal flooding has risen dramatically in recent years, underscoring the pressing need for effective resilience strategies.
Communities most at risk include coastal towns such as Atlantic Beach and Morehead City, where high concentrations of low-income households often lack the resources needed to implement protective measures. These areas are experiencing rising insurance costs and property damages, which further exacerbate socio-economic vulnerabilities. The impacts of climate change on these regions extend beyond immediate economic concerns; they also threaten local livelihoods, particularly those reliant on tourism and fishing industries.
This grant initiative aims to support research on coastal resilience, focusing on data that informs management practices and enhances adaptive capacity for North Carolina’s coastal communities. The funding is intended to cover direct project-related expenses, enabling researchers to engage in field activities that include data collection on storm surge impacts and community preparedness. The research aims to produce actionable frameworks that guide local governments and stakeholders in implementing effective coastal management strategies.
The context of North Carolina demands collaboration between researchers and local governments to ensure the practical application of findings. Consistent engagement with communities in the development of adaptation strategies will be critical, allowing researchers to tailor their approaches based on localized needs and conditions. By leveraging this funding, the initiative seeks to foster resilience efforts that lead to improved community safety and environmental management along the coast.
Who Should Apply in North Carolina
Eligibility for this grant includes academic institutions, research organizations, and non-profits with expertise in coastal management, environmental science, or related fields. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a history of conducting relevant research that addresses the unique challenges faced by coastal communities in North Carolina.
The application process requires a detailed project proposal outlining research methodologies, community engagement strategies, and expected outcomes. As collaboration with local stakeholders is a vital component, successful applications will need to exhibit a clear plan for including community input throughout the research process.
The intended outcomes of this grant are expected to significantly influence coastal management policies in North Carolina. Through rigorous research and community involvement, the project aims to create sustainable frameworks that guide local adaptation measures, ultimately contributing to the resilience of vulnerable coastal areas. With the potential for meaningful impact, this funding opportunity stands as an essential resource in enhancing coastal resilience across North Carolina.
North Carolina's Unique Coastal Landscape
North Carolina's coastal landscape is characterized by a distinctive ecotone where land meets water, necessitating tailored resilience strategies that reflect local ecological conditions. Unlike inland areas with different environmental dynamics, coastal regions in North Carolina face specific challenges related to hurricane activity and sea-level rise. The state's diverse geography and demographic factors also require a nuanced approach to community engagement and adaptation planning, underscoring the importance of locally informed, research-driven solutions.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements