A Proposal for Using Geonarratives in Hazard-Adaptive Planning: Coastline Change in South Beach, Washington

Abstract

Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest told stories to prepare future generations for environmental hazards. Facing a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, tsunami, and sea level rise, non-indigenous communities today also tell stories using scientific models and maps. This thesis presents materials that can tell the story of one such community - South Beach, Washington. The materials include a narrative history of the region, a description of the community today, future hazards maps, and historical maps depicting coastal change. The future hazards maps are the product of three interacting hazards: a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake and coseismic subsidence, an earthquake-generated tsunami, and water level of the Pacific Ocean which accounts for both sea level rise and tidal fluctuations. A geonarrative using these materials is recommended for engagement efforts with South Beach stakeholders seeking to maintain community resilience in this dynamic environment.