Coastal Resilience in NJ : Planning Through Implementation

This full-day, in-person program will explore innovative strategies, proactive planning, and creative solutions for coastal resilience in NJ

Welcome to our sixth annual Coastal Resilience in NJ: Planning Through Implementation event!

While the impacts of storm surges along the New Jersey coast continue to be studied, various coastal restoration projects have proven to help mitigate coastal impacts and flooding.

This full-day program will highlight planning and implementation efforts for coastal restoration and storm risk management in the region.

Representatives from government agencies, academia, nonprofits, and industry working in New Jersey coastal settings will discuss their programs and experiences adapting to increased storm intensity and frequency.

You’ll walk away with a better understanding of current program initiatives and active stakeholders to help build a resilient future.

Continuing education credits are available!

Join us for a dynamic day of insight and connection, featuring a Panel Discussion on Planning for Marsh Restoration, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers & NJDEP Representatives, a Student Research Panel, and Expert-Led Presentations & Discussions.

Morning Session:

• Joseph Seebode, Deputy Commissioner, NJDEP (Keynote) (invited)
• Lamar Gore, Refuge Manager, John Heinz NWR, USFWS (invited)
• Student Research Panel: Erika Hansen, Drexel University; Brooke Smith, Rowan University; Noemie Denis, Rutgers University; Ian Day, Stevens Institute

Afternoon Session:

• John Swartz, PhD, Research Earth Scientist, The Water Institute

Afternoon Panel with Q&A - Planning for Marsh Restoration: From Seed to Sediment:

• Arsheen Ehtesham, Dredged Material Management SME, USACE - New York
• Tom Knezick, Owner, Pinelands Nursery
• Bill Shadel, CE, CERP, Coastal Projects Manager, The Nature Conservancy
• Stephen Simpson, Vice President, Mobile Dredging & Video Pipe, Inc.

Following the afternoon session, keep the conversation going at Happy Hour, where you can network with panelists and speakers while enjoying the return of our popular complimentary oyster bar from the Barnegat Oyster Collective, along with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.

A light breakfast and lunch buffet will be provided, featuring Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free options. If you have specific dietary needs, please indicate them during registration so we can accommodate everyone comfortably.

For all event inquiries, please reach out to the event steering committee members Paulo Rodriguez Heyman at paulo@renovaenviro.com, Dana Patterson Grear at dpatterson@princetonhydro.com, or Mike Hanlon at mhanlon@sovcon.com.