Flooding

Due to sea level rise, flooding in neighborhoods around Jamaica Bay is becoming more frequent and widespread. The Science and Resilience Institute works with residents, researchers and agencies to build collective knowledge about the location, timing and impacts of current and future flooding. This local, science-based information is a critical part of developing resilient solutions.

Supporting Knowledge and Action

Flooding is a threat to the livelihoods and well-being of the communities that experience it, any of which face a larger suites of challenges shaped by historical legacies of racism and inequality. Within New York City, flooding stems from various places. Research and policy often focus on specific types of flooding, but flood waters can seriously impact streets, homes, businesses, subways, schools, and infrastructure regardless of the cause. As a result, academic institutions that help create a bridge between knowledge about flooding and action, can also support intentional collaboration amongst stakeholders and sustained impact.

Serving this role, SRIJB engages in a portfolio of projects, in the Jamaica Bay watershed and beyond, that demonstrate the value of using science to empower communities; but also leveraging communities to reinforce the strength and relevancy of the science. Projects like Community Flood Watch and FloodNet exemplify this and have emerged from frequent and sustained dialogue with Jamaica Bay communities.

Current Projects

Community Flood Watch Project

Report local flooding, share experiences, and access resources related to flooding in NYC coastal communities. Researchers use flood reports to improve flood forecasts and to visualize how “normal” high tides will look in the future. Communities can use the data and visualizations to communicate their neighborhood’s needs and visions to city leaders.
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FloodNet

FloodNet is a cooperative of communities, researchers, and New York City government agencies working to better understand the frequency, severity, and impacts of flooding in New York City.The data and knowledge gained can be used by local residents, researchers, city agencies, and others to advocate around and work to reduce flood risk.
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Jamaica Bay Community Flood Fellowship Program

The Community Flood Fellowship Program convenes community leaders from across the Jamaica Bay watershed to build knowledge, create a network of local expertise, and enhance urban flood resilience.
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Blogs related to flooding: