Dr. Maureen Downing-Kunz

Intertidal mudflats and tidal wetlands are ecologically valuable habitats that are in equilibrium if sea level rise equals sediment (organic and inorganic) supply. Restoration of diked tidal wetlands is a major thrust of resource agencies, including for the San Francisco Bay and Delta. This project uses models and the wealth of data available in this estuary to determine if mudflats and existing and restored wetlands will be sustainable. We collaborate on a larger project developing scenarios of ecosystem change driven by climate change.