In recent years, coastal storms have had a heavy impact on the North Atlantic coast of the United States. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) was tasked in 2013 - just after Superstorm Sandy, which caused $37 billion in damage to New Jersey alone - with investigating measures to manage future flood risk “in ways that support the long-term resilience and sustainability of the coastal ecosystem and surrounding communities, and reduce the economic costs and risks associated with flood and storm events.” Initial work led to recommendations for massive storm surge barriers along the New Jersey Atlantic shoreline. However, the USACE recently released a New Jersey Back Bays (NJBB) Feasibility Study that provides a different roadmap for protecting lives, property, and ecosystems across this vulnerable region. Here’s what everyone should know about the plan: ![]() 1. NJ’s Back Bays Are Vulnerable to Flooding During Superstorm Sandy in 2012, back bay flooding caused devastating damage, that in some communities exceeded the impact of direct ocean storm surges. If left unaddressed, NJ’s back bay communities face an estimated $2.6 billion in annual damages due to future storms and rising sea levels. 2. The Plan Covers a Lot of Ground The feasibility study covers a vast area: 950 square miles of interconnected waterways and 3,500 miles of shoreline spanning 89 municipalities. 3. Massive Flood Gates Are Out Earlier proposals included installing storm gates at inlets such as Manasquan, Barnegat, and Great Egg Harbor. These large-scale structural measures were removed from the current plan due to their high cost, environmental concerns, and challenges in modeling their impacts. 4. Nature-Based Solutions Are In One of the standout recommendations is the restoration of 217 acres of salt marshes using dredged material. These marshes act as natural sponges, absorbing storm surges and reducing flood risk. By enhancing these habitats, the plan not only protects human communities but also bolsters ecosystems that are vital for wildlife and fisheries. 5. What’s Next: Federal Review and Funding The release of the feasibility study is just the beginning. The plan still requires final approval by the Army Corps, funding from Congress, and coordination with local governments. If greenlit, implementation could take up to 11 years, focusing on elevating homes, floodproofing critical infrastructure, and restoring marshlands. Public support and awareness will be crucial to turning these plans into reality. The December 2024 feasibility study offers a clear vision for how to make the New Jersey Back Bays more resilient against future storms. Whether through nature-based solutions or targeted infrastructure improvements, these efforts aim to safeguard communities while respecting the region’s environmental heritage. Let’s work together to support these vital initiatives!
1 Comment
2/11/2025 07:03:00 am
Wrong! Out of the $2.6 billion in projected annual damage this project will eliminate less than 2% of it. The component to restore salt marsh will actually cost more than the damage it prevents. Groups like the ALS probably support it because they hope to get a chunk of the $42 million proposed for these restorations. Their opinions are so off we question if they have even read the plan.
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