ARCHIVE / 2022
Senior Thesis: regrowth
OVERVIEW
I set out to research and complete a preservation tactic for the rapidly disappearing salt marshes due to the rise in ocean levels. This depicts the research I conducted throughout the months of January-July and built a 1/2 scale physical model as well as a strong educational display on this ever so important topic.
RESEARCH
Salt marshes help protect shorelines from erosion, storm surge, and toxic nutrients. They provide a nursery for 80% of our seafood. Rising tides are deteriorating this important ecosystem. By preserving and rebuilding salt marshes we will not only be protecting this instrumental habitat but also our threatened coastlines. Marsh grass filters water, collects sediment in high tide, and provides a home for shelfish. Often times when salt grass is planted, it is left vulnerable and can easily wash away in the waves. Although marsh grass is crucial to preserving the habitat, it needs a protectant to be able to regrow effectively.
THE PROBLEM
Currently, preservation organizations are using "living shorelines". A tactic to replant marsh grass. The problem is, it's laborous, and the waves and erosion usually wash the grass away before it has time to root.
EXPLORATION
[Present the final design and reflect on what you learned from this project.]
FUNCTION
The product is delivered in the mail, designed to be stacked together. Preservationalists can assemble regrowth together and leave in the water to rebuild the environment.
03 / FINAL WORK & REFLECTION
[Present the final design and reflect on what you learned from this project.]