Flooding threatens communities worldwide, and small towns are often most at risk. In North Carolina, a dedicated team of landscape architects at the Coastal Dynamics Design Lab (CDDL) is working to change that. "Too often, coastal research and design is fragmented into discrete scientific, academic, and professional disciplines," according to the CDDL Mission statement. "The CDDL seeks to transform this compartmentalized approach by coupling designers—landscape architects, environmental planners, architects, graphic designers, and engineers—with scientists and local stakeholders, to create innovative, sustainable, adaptable, and resilient design solutions that address the environmental and human needs of small, rural, and under-resourced communities."

Founded in 2013 at North Carolina State University, CDDL initially focused on engaging students in community projects related to coastal flooding. However, the devastating impact of Hurricane Florence in 2018 shifted their focus. They now provide direct technical assistance to small towns, helping them develop and implement innovative solutions for flood mitigation and community resilience.

More Than Just Flood Control:

CDDL recognizes that resilience is about more than just keeping water out. Their approach integrates flood control measures with economic development strategies, ensuring that communities survive and thrive. This holistic approach has led to impressive results, with towns like Pollocksville securing over $4 million in grants for projects like waterfront revitalization and the creation of a beautifully constructed wetland park.

Community-Centered Approach:

One of the key strengths of CDDL is their community-centered approach. They prioritize understanding each town's unique needs and priorities, fostering strong partnerships and building trust. This collaborative approach ensures that the solutions developed are truly sustainable and meet the community's long-term needs.

The "Floodprint" - A Roadmap for Resilience:

CDDL develops a "floodprint" for each community – a comprehensive plan that guides recovery and adaptation efforts. This in-depth process involves extensive community engagement and analysis, resulting in actionable recommendations that address immediate and long-term challenges.

Looking Ahead:

CDDL's work is a testament to the power of community-driven solutions and the importance of considering the unique needs of small towns in resilience planning. CDDL is helping to build a more resilient future for North Carolina after the disastrous Hurricane Helene by empowering communities with the knowledge and tools to rebuild and fortify their properties in a resilient manner.

Want to learn more? Visit the Coastal Dynamics Design Lab website to explore their projects and discover how they are making a real difference in people's lives in small towns across North Carolina.