Storm Surge Experts to Speak at Sanibel Event

On January 5th, SanCap Resilience will host its first educational program of the season from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Sanibel Community House (2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL). The program is called ‘Nature-based and Adaptive Strategies to Mitigate Future Storm Surge Impacts.’

The program will be presented by two nationally recognized experts from the University of Florida: Dr. Jules Bruk, FASLA, PLA, director of the School of Landscape Architecture and Planning and chair and professor of landscape architecture, and Jeff Carney, professor in the School of Architecture and director of the Florida Institute for Built Environment Resilience.
Registration is required for this free event HERE.

SanCap Resilience is a coalition of community organizations and concerned citizens. Its mission is to lead a community-based initiative to build resilience and protect the vibrancy of the islands long into the future.

The presentation from professors Bruk and Carney will provide background on storm surge and how it is impacted by sea level rise, rising temperatures, and intensified storms, as well as the loss of protective systems such as reefs, mangroves, and dunes. More importantly, the discussion will explore what can be done to mitigate these impacts.

The presenters will outline a broad array of solutions, including nature-based coastal strategies, infrastructure protections, and adaptation of structures and landscapes to reduce damage and accelerate recovery. Throughout the discussion, examples of what has been effective in other communities will be highlighted, and attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions.

“There is probably no more relevant topic for our island community than this one,” said Bob Moore, Chair of the SanCap Resilience steering committee. “After living through multiple storm surge events, we’re all eager to learn how we can protect ourselves in the future. In fact, in our community survey last spring, 95% of respondents stated they would like to see Sanibel and Captiva become a model of coastal resilience as it relates to adapting our islands to the impacts of climate change.”

Ashlee Painter, newly appointed Chief Resilience Office for the City of Sanibel, also commented on the program. “This workshop will be a good way for the community to learn about mitigation actions they can take to help reduce the effects of storm surge. It will also provide some background information that will be useful for residents as the City begins its Adaptation Plan.”