Document Type
Poster
Original Publication Date
2024
Journal/Book/Conference Title
New England Estuarine Research Society
Date of Submission
August 2024
Abstract
Natural and nature-based features have been implemented throughout New York City to provide habitat and reduce flooding, erosion, and pollution. The West Pond Living Shoreline in Jamaica Bay, NY was designed with organic breakwaters and native marsh plants, including S. alterniflora. Post-construction monitoring in 2021 found that percent coverage of S. alterniflora was lower than expected. To inform future management, we studied the effect of elevation, planting method, and shoreline energy exposure on the percent cover, average stem height, and average stem density of S. alterniflora. Elevation and plant growth data were collected within 8 one sq. meter quadrats at 12 locations. We found variation in mean percent cover amongst the locations. Linear models revealed negative relationships between elevation and all three measures of planting success. Erosion rates are likely higher on the east of the living shoreline, which was breached during Superstorm Sandy, indicating a historic vulnerability to erosion.
Is Part Of
Publications from the Center for Environmental Studies
Included in
Biology Commons, Landscape Architecture Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons