JACKSONVILLE, Florida — The University of North Florida's Institute of Environmental Research and Education is partnering with the Northeast Florida Regional Council on a major new study assessing aquatic connectivity across 12 Florida counties, with the goal of improving coastal resilience as rapid regional growth puts pressure on flood-control infrastructure.\n\nThe study, which began data collection in June, is examining how road-stream crossings — culverts, bridges, and other human-built structures — affect water flow, floodwater drainage, and wildlife habitat. Researchers will evaluate both aquatic organism passage and the condition of existing infrastructure.\n\n"Northeast Florida is growing rapidly, and that growth puts pressure on the very systems that protect us from flooding," said Andrew Prokopiak, Senior Resiliency Planner for the Northeast Florida Regional Council. "Partnering on a study of this scale gives the region the evidence base needed for our counties and municipalities to make infrastructure and policy decisions that work for people and wildlife alike."\n\nDr. Erin Largo-Wight, IERE Director and Professor at UNF, said the project offers hands-on research opportunities for UNF students while supporting community resilience. "We are happy to participate in this project that allows UNF students to conduct impactful field research that supports coastal resilience and makes a difference in our community," she said.\n\nThe study's findings are expected to guide local infrastructure and policy decisions, helping balance continued population growth with flood protection and ecosystem health across Northeast Florida.
Nocatee, a master-planned community of approximately 25,000 residents in St. Johns County about 20 miles southeast of Jacksonville, is located near the PGA TOUR headquarters in Ponte Vedra and a Northrop Grumman facility.
