Coastal wetlands and flood damage reduction: Using risk industry-based models to assess natural defenses in the northeastern USA

Abstract

Together, these studies illustrate the direct and indirect flood risk reduction benefits that coastal wetlands provide by reducing flood heights and also by decreasing exposure. The research presented in the report shows that coastal wetlands can reduce property damage from storms and that these effects can be readily incorporated into the insurance industry’s risk models. These results help inform (i) risk reduction and conservation management priorities and (ii) the development of incentives for the conservation and restoration of natural defenses.