Idealized Natural Infrastructure Simulator to Quantify Benefits

Project Information

This project develops a standardized, simulation-based framework for evaluating the performance and benefits of natural infrastructure (NI) in coastal storm risk management. Using existing planning models and case study data, the research team will build idealized NI profiles (reefs, wetlands, barrier islands) and run multi-lifecycle simulations to quantify their storm protection and economic benefits. The tool will streamline feasibility-level planning by offering a repeatable method for comparing NI alternatives alongside traditional and hybrid infrastructure.

Problem

The integration of natural infrastructure into USACE planning is often constrained by a lack of standardized tools for quantifying their benefits. Without such tools, many NI options are dismissed early in planning due to uncertainty. This project addresses Statement of Need 2024 – Development of Standardized Methods to Calculate and Compare Benefits for Feasibility-Level Planning and responds directly to USACE policy emphasizing the use of NI in Civil Works projects. The project will bridge current data gaps by creating idealized, testable profiles that support lifecycle-based benefit assessments for NI features.

Solution

Research Approach

Conduct an expert elicitation process and literature review to inform profile design and modeling assumptions
Develop simplified, representative profiles for reefs, wetlands, and barrier islands using case study data
Integrate these profiles into planning models (e.g., Beach-fx, G2CRM, HEC-FDA) for Monte Carlo lifecycle simulations
Use economic models to quantify avoided damage costs, risk reduction, and long-term maintenance needs
Apply machine learning to streamline sensitivity testing and enhance predictive accuracy
Validate the model against historical storm events and real-world case studies
Disseminate results through a technical report, Coastal Working Group briefings, and national conference presentations

Expected Outcomes

A repeatable modeling framework for evaluating the long-term performance and benefits of NI
Idealized, parameterized profiles of wetlands, reefs, and barrier islands for use in feasibility-level modeling
Economic and resilience-based benefit comparisons between NI and traditional infrastructure
Data-informed guidance to support selection and justification of NI during USACE planning studies
Machine learning tools to accelerate future NI modeling and reduce uncertainty in decision-making

Impact

This project equips USACE planners, engineers, and economists with a practical tool to evaluate nature-based solutions early in the project lifecycle. By reducing the time, cost, and uncertainty of NI benefit analysis, the framework increases the likelihood of their inclusion in project alternatives. The result is more resilient, cost-effective infrastructure decisions that align with USACE’s mission to deliver enduring water resource solutions.

Partnerships & Collaboration

This effort brings together interdisciplinary teams from ERDC’s Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL), Environmental Laboratory (EL), and Information Technology Laboratory (ITL), in partnership with the University of Georgia and other N-EWN collaborators. USACE Districts—including EWN Proving Grounds and Great Lakes districts—will provide field insights and data to ensure relevance and applicability. Ongoing collaboration will be supported through workshops, listening sessions, and working group updates, creating a feedback loop between researchers, planners, and decision-makers across the agency.

Point of Contact

Catie Dillon

Coastal Engineer

Rusty Permenter

Research Hydraulic Engineer

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Engineering With Nature® is the intentional alignment of natural and engineering processes to efficiently and effectively deliver economic, ecological, and social benefits through collaboration.