Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Natural Sciences
First Advisor
Toro-Farmer, Gerardo
Area of Concentration
Environmental Studies with Biology
Abstract
Coastal waterfronts allow access to a prime natural resource for the communities they’re surrounded by. However, coastal waterfronts alike are in danger, especially in Florida. With stronger and more destructive storms along with invading non-native species, waterfronts are at risk. The study area is the New College of Florida’s waterfront in Sarasota, FL. In this study, I map out the distribution and location of banyan trees (Ficus benghalensis) in order to examine the extent of their spread. I also map the topography of the area as a detailed topographic map is useful for future planning and assessing flooding risks. I created multiple topographic maps using 5 different methods of interpolation and compared and contrasted them. This study is not set out to be representative of the long term topography or distribution of banyan trees, but rather a snapshot of the present. Land management recommendations are then made to protect this coastal waterfront from future threats.
Recommended Citation
Heierding, C. Luke, "Assessing the current state of New College of Florida’s coastal waterfront along with potential remedies to protect a vulnerable piece of shoreline." (2025). Theses & ETDs. 6679.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/6679