Non Technical Summary
This project aligns with USDA SBIR/STTR Phase I Program, Research Priority 8.6.C on reducing rural vulnerabilities (excluding terrorism) under Research Topic 8.6 on Rural and Community Development. It supports the USDA 2023-2026 Science and Research Strategy goals: Accelerating Innovative Technologies & Practices, Driving Solutions, and Cultivating Resilient Ecosystems. The project aims to address the escalating challenges faced by rural fishery communities, particularly the vulnerabilities posed by degrading water quality, rising sea levels, and increased storm surges. Traditional coastal protection methods often degrade vital ecosystems such as wetlands and mangroves, while also requiring costly and frequent repairs. This proposal seeks to develop a library of 3D-printed Living Seawalls™, which mimic natural coastal habitats (e.g., coral reefs, mangroves, oyster reefs, and seagrass meadows), to enhance coastal defenses while restoring marine ecosystems.Objectives include:1: Design, Fabricate, and Prototype 3D-Printed Habitat Structures for Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Seagrass Meadows, and Oyster Reefs2: Optimize 3D-Printed Habitat Structures for Specific Coastal Conditions and Impact AssessmentThe anticipated results include improved coastal resilience, increased fishery sustainability, and reduced environmental impact through the use of eco-friendly concretes. The project offers a significant commercial application by creating scalable, cost- effective seawalls that not only protect rural communities from risks but also support local fisheries and ecosystems.

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
135	0899	1070	100%

Knowledge Area
135 - Aquatic and Terrestrial Wildlife;

Subject Of Investigation
0899 - Wildlife and natural fisheries, general/other;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology;

Goals / Objectives
The main objective of the research outlined in this Phase I proposal is to develop and evaluate a library of 3D-printed Living Seawalls™ designed to mimic natural habitats. Four key habitat structures--coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass meadows, and oyster reefs--will be created to protect vulnerable coastal regions. This research seeks to address critical environmental and socio-economic challenges by delivering innovative, nature-based solutions that enhance coastal resilience, restore ecosystems, and support the economic stability of rural fishing communities. The successful completion of Phase I will allow us to progress to Phase II which focus on in-field validation for ecological impact, such as monitoring how the seawalls affect local marine habitats and their effectiveness in mitigating flooding and protecting infrastructure, and wave protection with in-field sensors.The Workplan is structured in two main objectives:Design, Fabricate, and Prototype 3D-Printed Habitat Structures for Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Seagrass Meadows, and Oyster Reefs.Optimize 3D-Printed Habitat Structures for Specific Coastal Conditions and Monitor Ecological Impact.

Project Methods
Task 1.1: Design Customized 3D-Printed Habitat Structures Kind Designs will create CAD models of habitat structures based on ecological data, with designs tailored to replicate natural habitat functionality. The designs will incorporate factors such as wave energy dissipation, water flow, species colonization, and compliance with permitting regulations. Metrics of Success will be indicated by the completion of all four habitat designs that meet ecological, structural, and regulatory performance criteria. Risk Mitigation adjustments will be made in collaboration with marine biologists if ecological features are not adequately replicated.Task 1.2: Prototypes Development and Structural Integrity Testing: The designs will be 3D printed using durable, eco-friendly concrete, and prototypes will undergo structural integrity tests in controlled environments (e.g., compression and flexural testing of concrete panels) to simulate real-world coastal forces. Metrics of Success will be determined by the prototypes' ability to provide sustainable habitat improvements compared to a flat wall (2x surface area) and dissipate wave energy (25% minimum). Risk Mitigation: If any prototype fails the tests, design modifications will be made to improve its resilience.