12 Feb 2026

Growth Patterns of Three Hydrilla Verticillata Biotypes in the United States

Abstract: Hydrilla [Hydrilla verticillata (L.f. Royle)] is an invasive submersed plant first documented in the United States (US) in the 1950s. Until recently, only two distinct strains of hydrilla, hereafter referred to as biotypes, were recorded in the US with both belonging to the same clade and characterized as either ‘monoecious’ or ‘dioecious’. In 2016, a third genetically distinct biotype (‘clade C’) was identified in the lower Connecticut River, Connecticut. Trials were conducted at two geographically unique locations within North Carolina to compare growth and reproduction of hydrilla biotypes by climatic conditions. Nominal differences were observed in peak aboveground biomass, relative growth rate, or occurrence of these metrics among the three hydrilla biotypes, although the predicted peak biomass for dioecious hydrilla did not occur during the study period. Monoecious hydrilla exhibited lower peak belowground biomass than dioecious and clade C hydrilla despite its abundant subterranean turion production. Monoecious hydrilla exhibited 1.8X greater aboveground biomass 180 days after planting (Julian day 304) than clade C hydrilla. Clade C hydrilla produced 74 axillary turions per plant on Julian day 304, which equates to a 2.3X increase over monoecious hydrilla and 61.5X increase over dioecious hydrilla. Conversely, subterranean turion production was 4.7 and 7.1X higher in monoecious hydrilla and dioecious hydrilla than clade C hydrilla, respectively. These studies suggest the clade C hydrilla displays many phenological similarities to the other two biotypes in the US, but its prodigious axillary turion production poses concerning implications for potential to spread and persistence following management.

11 Feb 2026

Assessing Relative Wetland Flood Risk Management Benefits Using COPE: An Exploration of Capacity, Opportunity, Payoff, and Efficacy

Abstract: Wetlands reduce flood risk, but measuring their performance and benefits is challenging due to the highly variable nature of the factors, including landscape features, land use, and climate, that shape flood response. An evidence-based index was developed to rapidly assess the potential flood risk management benefits of wetland restoration. These benefits are measured by combining the Capacity (C), Opportunity (O), Payoff (P), and Efficacy (E) indicators into a single index, called COPE. Capacity captures the internal wetland characteristics that alter flood peak attenuation potential. Opportunity reflects watershed characteristics that control the effectiveness of internal wetland capacities. Payoff quantifies the population exposed to high flood risk, and Efficacy reflects the ability of communities to respond to flooding. Literature evidence for the C and O indicators suggests that flood risk is reduced by increasing wetland storage in small basins with hillslopes or in moderate to large riverine basins. Literature evidence for the E index suggests that multiple indicators can capture the potential for disproportionate harm to vulnerable communities. A case study demonstrated that the P indicator strongly influences the relative-benefits score produced by COPE, but the C, O, and E indexes can alter the score substantially when values deviate from average conditions.

11 Feb 2026

Oyster Reef Ecosystem Recovery Monitoring: A Habitat Case Study for the US Army Corps of Engineers Aquatic Restoration Monitoring for Ecosystem Recovery (ARMER) Network

Abstract: Oyster reefs are native to oceanic coasts of the contiguous United States, are great contributors to secondary production in estuaries, and provide food and other services to humans. Unfortunately, oyster reefs have become functionally extinct throughout much of their historical range due to overharvesting, disease, poor water quality, and weather-related drivers. Restoration efforts are underway in response to these population collapses and seek to replenish oyster populations to a level sustainable for ecosystem services. To evaluate effectiveness of these restoration interventions and characterize oyster reef recovery status on large scales, coordinated monitoring is needed to facilitate long-term collection, storage, and dissemination of data. The US Army Corps of Engineers has proposed the development of the Aquatic Restoration Monitoring for Ecosystem Recovery (ARMER) Network, a monitoring system composed of nationwide restoration and reference sites, to generate high-quality, replicated datasets to address large-scale ecosystem restoration challenges. This report details a framework of recovery attributes and associated monitoring metrics and methods proposed to characterize oyster reef habitat recovery following ecosystem restoration interventions. Monitoring recommendations, as well as existing monitoring networks and communities of practice, are discussed as key potential facets and partners in the operationalization of ARMER.

10 Feb 2026

Improving Dredging and Beneficial Use Project Implementation: Review of Critical Data Needs, Technical, and Market Factors

Purpose: This technical note summarizes key results from an applied research study funded by the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to advance US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) dredging technology and dredged material placement practices. The focus is on beneficial use (BU) of dredged material (DM), hereafter BUDM, that results from USACE’s management of navigation channels and ports around the nation. The objective of the study was to identify the current challenges facing domestic dredging practices and develop ideas and specific steps to drive effective projects. Study themes included improving the efficiency, cost, and procurement practices of the dredging industry; driving technology modernization; and fostering greater competition to promote more innovative dredging operations. A companion technical note goes into further details of our study (Mohan et al. 2025).

10 Feb 2026

Sustainable Dredged Material Management on the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers to Achieve Multiple Benefits

Abstract: This technical report showcases the sustainable dredge material management practices by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) on the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers. Over the years, USACE Huntington District (LRH) has continually adapted their navigation operations, dredge maintenance activities, and sediment beneficial use processes in response to changing local and regional hydrodynamic conditions, the results from monitoring, and proactive stakeholder engagement. This report highlights three project sites—Bonanza Bar and R. C. Byrd Locks and Dam on the Ohio River and Winfield Locks and Dam on the Kanawha River—that exemplify sustainable dredge practices consistent with Engineering With Nature® principles. By implementing these best practices, LRH has established a more sustainable dredging program that generates economic, environmental, and social benefits beyond the mere removal of sediment from the federal navigation channel. These innovative practices have successfully achieved multiple benefits while executing USACE’s navigation mission. The data and lessons learned from these projects can be applied to other riverine projects aiming to use sediment beneficially, enhance the development of USACE sustainable dredging practices, and inspire future projects.

9 Feb 2026

Ice-Resistant Breakwater Rock Sizing at Elim, Alaska

Abstract: The Elim Subsistence Harbor project requires breakwaters capable of withstanding wave action and sea ice forces in Norton Bay, Alaska. This study analyzed meteorological data, satellite imagery, and ice formation patterns to determine appropriate armor stone sizing based on ice forces for the proposed breakwaters. Analysis revealed that Elim experiences predominantly northerly winds during winter, with southwesterly components developing during the May–June breakup period. Offshore ice breakup occurs earlier at Elim (late March) than at Nome (late April). Using the Modified Stefan Equation calibrated with field measurements, end-of-season ice thickness near shore averages 1.4 m. Ice forces at Elim are expected to be less severe than at Nome because of wind patterns and directional constraints, with primary concerns limited to ice approaching from southwest directions during breakup. Using empirical evidence from Nome Harbor and physical model studies, we recommend a zoned armoring approach using 8-ton stone for toes and 4-ton stone on slopes in ice-exposed areas as minimum protection, or 8-ton stone throughout ice-exposed zones for enhanced durability. Relatively steep slopes (1.5H:1V to 2H:1V) should be maintained to encourage protective rubble ramp development during ice interactions.

9 Feb 2026

Optimization of Refueling Infrastructure Locations for Freight Vehicles

Abstract: In both the public and private sectors, there is a drive to implement zero-emission solutions in traditionally polluting industries to limit their damaging environmental impact. The state of California, in particular, has implemented new legislation requiring higher percentages of freight trucks and commercial fleets to be zero- emission vehicles starting in 2024. However, the lack of medium- and heavy-duty refueling stations across California hinders the transition to zero-emission freight. Selecting the locations for such future stations must balance demand distribution, monetary costs, land resources, stakeholder feedback, and the potential for disruptions from natural disasters, cyber interference and socio-economic shocks and stressors. We solve this logistics problem near-optimally by minimizing travel time while accounting for additional variables using a generalized inexact k-medoids method. This approach is relatively fast and scales computationally such that it can be applied on a statewide scale. We propose a near-optimized network of zero-emission stations across the state of California. Our network establishes a mean travel time from a location where a driver is expending fuel to a refueling station of six minutes and minimizes diversions from existing freight routes. In this way, our facility location model can hasten the conversion from a traditional to a clean freight industry in California and can be scaled up to a national level. While facilitating the reduction of emissions from freight infrastructure, our methodology also has the flexibility to incorporate a variety of stakeholder values.

5 Feb 2026

GeoClimate Intelligence Platform: A Web-Based Framework for Environmental Data Analysis

Abstract: Environmental science education faces a critical barrier: programming requirements prevent students, novice researchers, and domain experts from accessing planetary-scale datasets. This study presents the GeoClimate Intelligence Platform, a web-based framework powered by Google Earth Engine (GEE) that eliminates programming barriers while maintaining research-grade analytical capabilities. The platform comprises five integrated modules: GeoData Explorer for climate dataset access, Climate Analytics implementing 20+ ETCCDI-compliant climate indices, Hydrology Analyzer for precipitation analysis and return periods, Product Selector for dataset validation, and Data Visualizer for interactive analysis. This modular design supports integrated workflows while maintaining analytical independence across specialized functions. Development was motivated by workshops where students found programming barriers insurmountable despite strong motivation. Educational validation through university coursework demonstrated effectiveness. Performance evaluation shows robust scalability from educational to research-scale applications. The platform requires only a GEE account and operates through web browsers, eliminating software installation. This accessibility transformation enables broader participation in data-driven environmental problem-solving with scientific rigor, democratizing sophisticated environmental analysis for educational and research communities.

5 Feb 2026

Upscaling Nature-Based Solutions for Reducing Risk from Natural Hazards: From Process to Practice

Abstract: Nature-based solutions (NbS) offer an innovative approach to reducing risks from natural hazards, aligning ecological processes with engineering objectives. However, successfully scaling NbS from site-specific interventions to systems-level applications remains a challenge. This paper examines an Engineering With Nature® (EWN®) case study to explore how NbS can be integrated into broader, systems-based engineering practices, demonstrating the transition from conceptual design to wide-scale, regional implementation. One such case study is Deer Island, located off the coast of Mississippi, USA, where EWN approaches stabilized shorelines and restored critical habitats. The project utilized natural sediment transport processes to rebuild marsh and dune systems, enhancing the island’s resilience to storm surges and erosion. Through careful integration of natural and engineered systems, Deer Island serves as a model for how NbS can mitigate risks at both local and regional scales, increasing the ability to recover from a natural disaster and overall ecological health. In particular, the case study highlights the benefit of designing for multiple integrated ecosystem components to deliver a diverse array of ecological functions, goods, and services. The paper further underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, highlighting the role of landscape architects in creating multifunctional designs that incorporate natural features and processes. These designs enhance ecosystem services while addressing societal needs, providing a blueprint for how when combined landscape architecture, science, and engineering can synergize in NbS projects. By synthesizing lessons from the EWN and emphasizing the need for cross-sector collaboration, this paper outlines pathways to scale NbS from localized efforts to comprehensive strategies that reduce coastal storm risk.

5 Feb 2026

Evaluating Snow Pavement Strength in Remote Cold Environments via California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Russian Snow Penetrometer (RSP) Combined Testing

Abstract: Accurate assessment of compacted snow strength is critical for ensuring the safety and performance of snow runways in cold environments. The Russian Snow Penetrometer (RSP) is widely used in snow science and engineering due to its simplicity, portability, and capability for rapid field measurements under extreme conditions. Conversely, the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test remains the benchmark for evaluating the load-bearing capacity of conventional granular materials but is seldom applied to snow because of logistical constraints and the material’s complex mechanical behavior. The relationship between these two pavement evaluation tools remains poorly defined. This work investigates how RSP strength indices relate to CBR measurements to determine whether the RSP can serve as a practical proxy for snow pavement load-bearing capacity. Side-by-side field measurements of snow pavement strength were collected over a 30 h period at two test section locations. Both methods captured temporal strength increases and spatial variability, with consistently higher values at the second site attributed to extended sintering. A moderate linear correlation (R2 = 0.44) between RSP and CBR results supports a quantifiable relationship between the two methods. These findings begin to bridge the gap between conventional pavement testing and snow-specific strength evaluation, demonstrating the potential of the RSP for rapid assessment of snow runways. Continued data collection and analysis will refine this relationship and strengthen its applicability for operational use.