Partners: n/a

Key Researchers: Matthew Shudtz, Scott Pippin

Project Description: When policymakers choose to address flood risks with nature-based solutions, they secure a variety of co-benefits for the surrounding community, from improved aesthetics to enhanced climate resilience. And in some cases, co-benefits can include enhanced biodiversity and habitat improvements for threatened or endangered species. The US Army Corps of Engineers’ management plans for the Lower Mississippi River provide a valuable case study in this link between NBS and species protection. In fact, the use of NBS in the Lower Mississippi was a major factor in the recent decision to remove the Interior Least Tern from the federal endangered species list. Drawing from extensive legal research and interviews with experts from the US Army Corps of Engineers and US Fish and Wildlife Service, we explored how species conservation planning under Endangered Species Act Section 7(a)(1) aligns with the planning processes for USACE Civil Works programs and might encourage greater implementation of natural and nature-based features in flood risk management. Our final report, including legal and policy recommendations is available in PDF format here.

Project Goal: To explain how an underutilized legal and policy tool — ESA Section 7(a)(1) — might encourage greatre implementation of NBS.  

Project status/outcomes: Complete

Image from the EWN Atlas