Planning for sea level rise involves communicating possible future changes in an understandable way. One of the most compelling techniques is video simulation. For this project, and as part of a master’s degree final project, UF landscape architecture student Brad Weitekamp created sea level rise simulation videos for the Matanzas Basin using bird’s eye aerial photographs, geographic results of “open water” habitat from the Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM), image editing software, and time-lapse movie making software. The resulting simulation of incremental zero- to three-feet rise in sea level at Marineland and Pellicer Creek are shown below. The sea level rise simulations are a simplification for visualization and communication purposes, and they do not reflect other changes that may occur such as habitat responses, coastal dynamics from storms, or structural protection measures. The simulation videos were presented at the project’s community workshops held in early December.

In the video below, several project Steering Committee members explain (1) why the Matanzas Basin is special and (2) the importance of planning for sea level rise in the area.

Members appreciate the Matanzas Basin’s intact ecology and ecosystem services. Ed Montgomery, Director of Rural Properties at Rayonier timber company, sees the area’s value holistically, believing that “the Matanzas estuary creates harmony with the whole natural system we live in. It’s a living system that people understand”. The people and built environment are also valued assets to the community. The wealth of culture is worth preserving according to Jackie Kramer, with Friends of the GTM Reserve.

Steering Committee members state that the project is important because it considers the impacts of sea level rise not only on the natural environment, but also the built environment. Doug Davis from Fletcher Management Company notes the project is important because it tries to answer the question: “How can we adequately prepare [for sea level rise] so businesses and residents can continue to enjoying the special resources?”

Click on the video below to watch the entire Steering Committee interview.

We also want to recognize
Videographer: David C Montgomery, http://www.silverfishcloset.com
Music: Tina E Andrus, Country Morning Espania, archive.org

The first series of community workshops for residents of Palm Coast, the coastal communities in the Matanzas area, and St. Augustine will be held on December 5th and 6th, respectively. At each workshop, researchers from the University of Florida will present the science of sea level rise and its potential impacts on the Matanzas area. Based on the information presented, workshop facilitators will ask participants for their preferences of what places to protect and what adaptation strategies to use. Please visit Events for specific information and to RSVP for the workshop that is most convenient for you. Your participation is important for gaining awareness of important issues of coastal change and how they affect you, and for guiding current planning for community and environmental adaptation!

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