4 minute read
Conclusion
Recognizing EWN opportunities and encouraging action
Several key points can be emphasized in reference to the collection of projects presented in this atlas:
1. There is widespread interest among a diversity of organizations in the approach to project development we call Engineering With Nature. Since the initial stages of its development, there have been countless inquiries about the EWN Atlas. These inquiries led to the contribution of project information and photos by many organizations and individuals excited by the book’s topic. In total, more than 200 organizations are named in the pages of this atlas as contributing to the development of the 56 projects included; these organizations span a broad range of economic, engineering, environmental, and social interests. The response to our call to share these projects, and to learn from that exchange, has been enthusiastic and overwhelming.
2. The four elements of Engineering With Nature are readily evident in successful efforts to integrate natural processes into water resources projects. A long list of characteristics, criteria, or metrics could potentially be used to describe the projects contained in this atlas. However, the four EWN elements that were used to characterize the projects—producing efficiencies, using natural processes, broadening benefits, and promoting collaboration—are fundamental to advancing the integration of natural and engineered systems and producing the benefits such integration can generate. The projects included in the Atlas were developed by different programs, organizations, and countries, yet the four elements were clearly evident in every case.
3. The range of Engineering With Nature applications is very broad in terms of context and purpose. The goals behind the projects in the Atlas range from navigation infrastructure support and flood risk management to habitat development and species conservation. In all cases, the projects were intended to serve multiple functions and objectives. The particular combination of objectives to be achieved in a specific case is, of course, driven by context. The projects assembled in this atlas demonstrate the wide range of objectives that can be achieved through Engineering With Nature, as well as the opportunity to develop pragmatic solutions using multi-purpose projects.
4. It takes a diverse team to develop Engineering With Nature solutions and projects. The composition of the project team—partners, stakeholders, and technical team members—is critical to the development of multi-purpose, nature-based projects. The multi-objective nature of EWN projects provides a broader base for developing partnerships that will contribute materially and/or financially to the project. The planning, design, engineering, and construction of these projects will also integrate and balance a broader range of disciplines than more conventional, narrow-purpose projects. As reflected by the projects in the Atlas, this diversity provides the basis for very creative solutions.
5. Communication is a key to success. The projects included in this atlas represent a small subset of projects worldwide that fit the model of EWN. The purpose of this book was to provide a means for sharing information about the principles and practices of EWN in the form of tangible, constructed projects. Interest and action supporting naturebased solutions continues to build around the world. Continuing to share information about these projects will help to sustain momentum and support within this community of practitioners. With the completion of this book, we have already begun to plan for the second volume. In the meantime, please visit our website (www.engineeringwithnature. org) periodically for the latest information about activities, articles, research, and projects associated with Engineering With Nature.
Article cover: Bayou Caddy Shoreline Stabilization Project near Waveland, MS, part of the broader Bayou Caddy Ecosystem Restoration Project to improve the resiliency of the Mississippi coastline. (Photo by USACE Mobile District)
