10 Jun 2025

Developing an Inventory of US Army Corps of Engineers’ Nature-Based Infrastructure Projects

Abstract: The purpose of this report is to recommend a framework for developing a comprehensive database of US Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) natural infrastructure (NI) projects. Natural infrastructure is defined as an area or system that is naturally occurring, naturalized, or constructed to mimic naturally occurring features and then intentionally managed to enhance ecosystem value and provide social and economic benefits. Examples include river floodplains, setback levees, forested water supply watersheds, freshwater and coastal wetlands, living shorelines, dune and beach systems, living breakwaters, and reefs. NI is dynamic, with landscape-level interactions occurring among different features as well as in tandem with conventional infrastructure. Specifically, we identify the Engineering With Nature (EWN) ProMap database is identified as an attractive candidate for expansion. We also develop a tool for collecting project data that will improve data quality by standardizing information across projects, adopting an ecosystem services approach to cataloging project benefits, and incorporating social benefits metrics.

15 Jun 2023

ERDC R&D Strategy: Connecting the Dots to Innovation

Abstract: The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Board of Directors establishes the organization’s vision, mission, values and strategy. The strategy is determined by our vision and mission; it is guided by our values; and it is influenced by key national priorities and needs.

21 Jan 2022

USACE Research and Development Strategy: Communication Products

Abstract: This paper provides the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) communication products sent by LTG Scott A. Spellmon to help as we discuss the first USACE Research and Development Strategy. The USACE R&D Strategy was approved at the 1Q22 EGM in Atlanta, and is now ready for fielding, communicating, and implementing. The materials included here are (1) The USACE R&D Strategy, (2) USACE R&D Strategy Slide Deck, (3) USACE Top 10 R&D Priorities 2-pager; (4) USACE Top 10 R&D Priorities Placemat. The USACE R&D Strategy Slide Deck has several examples of R&D products and capabilities, aligned with the Top 10 R&D Priorities, for your use. Please add to these examples with your own, highlighting past R&D success stories as well as the need for future potential R&D.