Economic Benefits of Nature Based Solutions

Marshes, Storm Risk, and Coastal Resilience in Virginia

Coastal marshes reduce erosion and buffer communities from storm waves, making them a vital part of estuarine ecosystems and local economies. A recent NOAA-funded VIMS study found that Middle Peninsula residents rank storm risk reduction as the top benefit marshes provide.

Building on these findings, this new 3-year CZM funded study will examine how natural and nature-based features (NNBF)—like tidal marshes and living shorelines—reduce storm damage costs for Virginia communities. Researchers will combine physical storm-impact modeling with community survey data on damages, costs, and risk perceptions, targeting responses from rural (Bayside, Accomack County) and urban communities (City of Hampton) to capture how perceptions, preferences, and priorities differ across the region.

• Virginia Coastal Homeowner Survey – Hampton and Accomack County