C2H2 RCN Collaborative Research: Appalachia Flood-Health Resilience Research Coordination Network

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $386,304 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Rural mountain communities like Appalachia face increasing risks from extreme weather events like inland flooding, as tragically demonstrated by the catastrophic impacts of Tropical Storm Helene in 2024. These communities experience disproportionate health consequences from such disasters, including respiratory illnesses, waterborne diseases, and mental health disorders, yet receive limited research attention and resources compared to coastal and urban areas. This Research Coordination Network (RCN) serves the national interest by advancing scientific knowledge and public welfare through an interdisciplinary collaboration of geoscientists, public health professionals, social scientists, and community leaders to identify evidence-based strategies for enhancing flood resilience, targeted adaptation solutions, and reducing health disparities in rural communities. Through knowledge sharing and coordinated research, the network will have broader impacts that include actionable recommendations to protect community health, strengthen rural infrastructure, and build economic resilience. The findings will be designed for scalability, enabling broader application to other rural communities nationwide. This project promotes scientific progress by equipping communities with the tools to mitigate and adapt to extreme weather events. The research coordination network will operate through five interdisciplinary working groups addressing critical themes: (1) Geophysical and weather rela

Key facts

NSF award ID
2525762
Awardee
North Carolina State University (NC)
SAM.gov UEI
U3NVH931QJJ3
PI
Jennifer R Runkle
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Climate and Human Health
Estimated total
$386,304
Funds obligated
$386,304
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
07/01/2025 → 06/30/2030