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Planning hydrological restoration of coastal wetlands: Key model considerations and solutions

January 6, 2024

The hydrological restoration of coastal wetlands is an emerging approach for mitigating and adapting to climate change and enhancing ecosystem services such as improved water quality and biodiversity. This paper synthesises current knowledge on selecting appropriate modelling approaches for hydrological restoration projects. The selection of a modelling approach is based on project-specific factors, such as costs, risks, and uncertainties, and aligns with the overall project objectives. We provide guidance on model selection, emphasising the use of simpler and less expensive modelling approaches when appropriate, and identifying situations when models may not be required for project managers to make informed decisions. This paper recognises and supports the widespread use of hydrological restoration in coastal wetlands by bridging the gap between hydrological science and restoration practices. It underscores the significance of project objectives, budget, and available data and offers decision-making frameworks, such as decision trees, to aid in matching modelling methods with specific project outcomes.

Publication Year 2024
Title Planning hydrological restoration of coastal wetlands: Key model considerations and solutions
DOI 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169881
Authors Alice Twomey, Karinna Nunez, Joel A. Carr, Steve Crooks, Daniel A. Friess, William Glamore, Michelle Orr, Ruth Reef, Kerrylee Rogers, Nathan Waltham, Catherine E. Lovelock
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Science of the Total Environment
Index ID 70250867
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Eastern Ecological Science Center
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