TAMPA, Fla. — The National Science Foundation awarded USF with a $20 million grant to the college’s lead staff of researchers. The cash will probably be used to develop a standardized method to each the replenishment and protection of coral reef and mangrove ecosystems.
The staff, which incorporates USF consultants in environmental engineering, marine science and anthropology, will develop equitable engineering practices to improve coastal sustainability. This will probably be carried out by combining pure options, like coral reefs and mangrove forests, with constructed infrastructure to promote resilience to threats that may trigger erosion and lack of life.
Civil and Environmental Engineering Professor Maya Trotz will lead the staff.
“Reefs and mangroves play critical roles in protecting coastal communities,” she said. “By rigorously valuing their social and economic benefits, we open new opportunities to invest in these habitats and ensure their benefits to people and nature. Not only will this project address the environmental questions of our time, it will also provide advice on how ordinary people everywhere can participate in finding solutions to our coastal crisis.”