U.S. Army Corps Embraces Equitable, Nature-Based Solutions to Address Sea Level Rise in Miami

(MIAMI, FL – Aug. 31, 2021) Earlier today, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) announced the agency will update their proposed Back Bay Study to incorporate more equitable, nature-based solutions as it seeks to address sea level rise and flooding in Miami and along Biscayne Bay. This news comes in response to an outpouring of feedback from residents, business leaders and organizations including Environmental Defense Fund that have advocated for such an approach. 

“Healthy coral reefs and mangroves are great for Florida’s environment and economy. Now, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recognizes that these are also vital tools to build long-term climate resilience. EDF has advocated that the Corps include nature-based solutions in Miami’s Back Bay study, and we are encouraged to see the Corps respond to feedback from EDF and others. We applaud the Corps for embracing equitable, nature-based solutions to build climate resilience in Miami, and we encourage agency leaders to prioritize similar solutions across our state.”

· Dawn Shirreffs, Florida Director, Environmental Defense Fund