Presenter: Michael Flynn
Affiliation: East Carolina University
Address: 213 Wyndham Circle Apt A Greenville, NC 27858
Telephone: (609) 462-4739
E-mail: flynnmi13@students.ecu.edu
Presenter Biography:
Michael Flynn is a Coastal Resources Management PhD student at East Carolina University who
is currently working on his dissertation, which focuses on conducting a multi-hazard
vulnerability assessment along Cape Hatteras National Seashore. He has recently resumed
employment with the Stockton University Coastal Research Center as an Environmental
Specialist and GIS Assistant and works on coastal zone management within the State of New
Jersey.
Title:
A Multi-Hazard Evaluation of Vulnerability using GIS along Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Co-authors:
Dr. Tom Allen, Dr. JP Walsh, Dr. Burrell Montz, and Dr. Tom Crawford
Abstract:
A multi-hazard approach risk assessment was developed to identify coastal hazard risks posed to
historical and cultural resources located within Cape Hatteras National Seashore. GIS was used
to evaluate the susceptibility of 27 historical structures to coastal erosion, storm surge, and sealevel rise. Historical shorelines (oceanfront and estuarine), LiDAR derived DEMs, and
simulation models were combined to create hazard risk maps for historic districts. Risk maps
were developed to include not only areal coverage for existing structures and districts, but also
identify potential areas of relocation or retreat in the long-term. In addition to evaluating
vulnerability, timelines for potential impacts provided scenarios for National Park Service staff
to research adaption and mitigation strategies. A protocol for ranking vulnerability and
prioritizing management alternatives for structures and districts is also in development.