Map of Coastal Vulnerability

Conclusions

The coastal vulnerability index (CVI) provides insight into the relative potential of coastal change due to future sea-level rise. The maps and data presented here can be viewed in at least two ways:

1. as an indication of where physical changes are most likely to occur as sea level continues to rise; and
2. as a planning tool for Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park in conjunction with other park research.

As ranked in this study, geomorphology and mean significant wave height are the most important variables in determining the spatial variability of the CVI for Kaloko-Honokohau NHP. Tidal range, relative sea-level rise, historic shoreline change, and regional coastal slope, as measured in this study, do not contribute to the spatial variability in the coastal vulnerability index.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park preserves a dynamic natural environment, which must be understood in order to be managed properly. The CVI is one way that park managers can assess objectively the natural factors that contribute to the evolution of the coastal zone, and thus how the park may evolve in the future.