Accessing Coastal Erosion Research in Prince Edward Island
GrantID: 17699
Grant Funding Amount Low: $5,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $30,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Prince Edward Island's Coastal Erosion Research Initiative
On Prince Edward Island, the vulnerability of coastal communities to erosion highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions. As sea levels rise and weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, erosion has accelerated along many of the island's shores, threatening infrastructure, habitats, and local economies reliant on tourism and fishing. Recent studies indicate that some areas of the coastline have retreated by nearly 50 feet over the last decade, prompting immediate action.
The communities most at risk are often those located near popular tourist destinations, such as Cavendish and Charlottetown, where seasonal populations spike. These areas rely heavily on their coastal landscapes to attract visitors, making them economically significant yet physically precarious. The local fishing industry, too, is inseparable from the health of coastal ecosystems; reduced shoreline stability can impact fish spawning grounds and local marine biodiversity, disrupting food sources for both fish and fishermen.
In response to these challenges, Prince Edward Island is implementing a Coastal Erosion Research Initiative, which aims to develop and test innovative erosion control systems. This program will integrate natural barrier solutionssuch as the restoration of coastal wetlandswith cutting-edge research involving local universities and environmental organizations. The engaged stakeholders will co-develop strategies that protect coastal infrastructure, enhance natural habitats, and foster resilience against future climate changes.
The initiative will employ experimental approaches that include community input in designing solutions suitable for local conditions. This collaborative process will ensure that the proposed erosion control systems are practical, sustainable, and scientifically sound. Coastal research teams will collect data on various mitigation methods, ultimately working toward a framework that could be scaled across other vulnerable coastal regions in Canada.
The expected outcomes of this initiative include improved coastal stability, enhanced habitats for marine life, and a strengthened local economy through sustained tourism. Protecting the coastal landscape is not just about stopping erosion; it’s about securing the economic future of coastal communities and preserving the island's rich natural heritage. As such, the Coastal Erosion Research Initiative represents a proactive step in fortifying Prince Edward Island’s coastal resilience against the ongoing threats posed by climate change.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
