Workshop 1
Introduction & Overview
About the Workshop
On May 18, 2022, the Nature-Based Exchange hosted its kickoff workshop at Clemson Design Center in Charleston, SC. The workshop accomplished two main goals: (1) to educate attendees on what natural and nature-based solutions (NNBS) are and how they are currently being implemented in South Carolina and (2) to solicit feedback that will aid in designing the remaining workshops. Thanks to Surculus and The Nature Conservancy for sponsoring breakfast and lunch and to Clemson University’s Masters of Resilient Urban Design program for hosting the workshop.
Agenda
Speakers
Compendium
Key Takeaways:
Natural and nature-based solutions reclaim as much natural function as possible and enhance the system’s capacity for self-renewal.
There is power in perception. We must work together to change the perception around NNBS to one that not only accepts, but also encourages and expects, the use of NNBS.
Existing mindsets must be broken. We cannot keep fooling ourselves that as “experts” our way is the best way and that our work operates on a 9am –5pm schedule. We must work with communities, listening to their needs and concerns, rather than simply talking at them.
Everyone must get ready: firms in the industry, funders, decision-makers, community members, practitioners. For NNBS to expand and be successful, there must be buy-in from all stakeholders. This means communities must be educated on it and support it, funders must require it, firms must be willing and capable to do this work, and communities must be instilling in the next generation a desire to appreciate and maintain these systems.
Presentations
Nature Has Solutions: Why Science Matters
The kickoff workshop began with an engaging presentation by Joshua Robinson (of Robinson Design Engineers). The presentation defined natural and nature-based solutions, explained how they work, and offered examples of projects from right here in the Lowcountry.
“Nature Has Solutions - Why Science Matters” presentation by Joshua Robinson (Robinson Design Engineers).
Using Nature to its Full Advantage
Following the first presentation, Keith Bowers (of Biohabitats) gave an overview of what it takes to plan, design, implement, and maintain natural and nature-based solutions. His presentation served as an introduction to the panel discussion that followed, which covered barriers and challenges, equity, and maintenance.
The panel discussion was moderated by Keith Bowers. Panelists included:
Dr. Regina Ciphrah
Dr. Elizabeth Fly
Todd Martin
Dr. Brandan Scully
Erin Stevens
“Using Nature to its Full Advantage.” Presentation by Keith Bowers (Biohabitats). Panel discussion was moderated by Keith Bowers and featured panelists Dr. Regina Ciphrah, Dr. Elizabeth Fly, Todd Martin, Dr. Brandan Scully, and Erin Stevens.
The Intersection of Nature & Culture in the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor
The final presentation of the day was done by the featured speaker, Dr. Dionne Hoskins-Brown (of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service). Her presentation took a detailed look at the intersection of nature and culture within the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor.
“The Intersection of Nature & Culture in the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor” presentation by Dr. Dionne Hoskins-Brown (NOAA, National Marine Fisheries Service).