ECONS11
In Search of Higher Ground: Sea-Level Rise, Coastal Flooding and the Future of the Eastern Seaboard
Economics
BC
Subject code
ECON
Course Number
S11
Department(s)
Instructor(s)
F. Eanes, L. Lewis
Course Long Title
In Search of Higher Ground: Sea-Level Rise, Coastal Flooding and the Future of the Eastern Seaboard
Cross Listed Courses
Description
Climate change, increased storm frequency and intensity, and sea-level rise have created an urgent need for adaptation planning for many communities along the U.S. eastern seaboard. In this course students examine adaptation strategies and vulnerability assessments to understand social and economic vulnerability and the complexities of coastal retreat. Utilizing climate adaptation planning tools, mapping technology, and on-the-ground observation, students examine adaptation strategies including managed retreat, buyouts, living shorelines, and green infrastructure. Students consider the current and future role of FEMA’s national flood insurance program as a major mechanism for incentivizing resilient or reckless coastal development. Based in experiential learning, students engage in discussions with experts, practitioners, and residents in highly vulnerable coastal areas in Maine, as well as a ten-day trip to coastal communities in Virginia and North Carolina. Prerequisite(s): ECON 101 or 222, or ENVR 209. Recommended background: ECON 250 or other statistics course.
Writing Credit
No writing credit
INDS Program Relationship
IDES - ENVR Program
GEC This Course Belongs To
-