Clarkson University researchers are planning to use AI to better predict hazards like shoreline erosion and flooding on Lake Ontario.
A grant from the New York State Water Resources Institute (NYS WRI) will allow researchers to develop advanced AI-driven models for predicting climate-driven coastal hazards along the lake’s shoreline.
Led by Associate Professors of Civil and Environmental Engineering Abul Baki and Tyler Smith, the project aims to enhance understanding of shoreline erosion, flooding risks, and climate variability using cutting-edge machine learning and deep learning techniques.
The research will generate high-resolution risk maps and predictive models to assist policymakers, environmental agencies, and coastal communities in mitigating shoreline hazards.
This effort aligns with New York State Department of Environmental Conversaton’s (NYSDEC) Great Lakes Watershed Program priorities and will foster collaboration with key stakeholders, including National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), United States Geological Survey (USGS), NYSDEC, and local municipalities.
“This project will provide critical insights into the complex interactions between climate change, shoreline processes, and human activities, helping decision-makers plan more effective coastal resilience strategies,” Baki said.
Using decades of historical climate data, the researchers’ first step is to analyze and uncover complex, nonlinear relationships within large datasets using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques.
Next, the team aims to develop and train an AI-driven model capable of detecting hidden patterns and correlations among climate variables—patterns that traditional models may overlook.
“This approach will enhance the accuracy and reliability of climate-driven hazard predictions, providing deeper insights into evolving environmental risks,” Dr. Baki said.
The grant for $40,000 will fund the study from March 2025 to February 2026. The research involves graduate and undergraduate students, reinforcing Clarkson’s commitment to research, innovation, and training the next generation of water resources engineers.