Mapping climate risks to build island resilience – 2026

Overview

The Caribbean’s small island states are among the most climate-sensitive regions in the world, already experiencing hotter temperatures, heavier rainfall events punctuated by drought, and rising seas. These pressures are magnified by limited land space, geographic isolation, aging infrastructure, high energy costs, and heavy dependence on tourism and fisheries.

The US Virgin Islands (USVI) are a U.S. territory with ~87,000 residents and a median household income about half that of the continental U.S. Communities face intersecting challenges: persistent storm damage, fragile grids and water systems, and chronic underinvestment in public infrastructure. Rising nighttime temperatures are increasing energy burden and straining local systems, while drought risk is also climbing.

In partnership with the Government of the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) and the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), DukeEngage students will provide much-needed capacity for environmental data collection and visualization. They will collect field data on heat, stormwater infrastructure, and walkability; compile and digitize stormwater inventories; and produce visual and narrative products (maps, videos, interpretive signage) to inform territorial planning and community outreach.

Students will also engage directly with community groups and local youth in projects that combine environmental action with cultural and historical preservation. These experiences are designed to cultivate students’ understanding of the interconnectedness of climate risk, infrastructure, and community well-being on small islands.

Community Partnerships

• US Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) – supporting launch of territory-wide baseline heat monitoring and stormwater infrastructure inventories
• Green Technology Center, University of the Virgin Islands – technical guidance and integration of student data products into territorial planning

• VIISION – community engagement, cultural orientation, and co-leadership on local projects

Projects:

• Heat & Stormwater Mapping: Students will collect Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) and GPS data, creating map layers and dashboards to inform local heat preparedness strategies.
• Walkability StoryMap: Building on last year’s student-produced StoryMap, students will update and expand field data and narratives highlighting heat exposure, shading, and mobility challenges.
• Stormwater Infrastructure Guidebook: Teams will refine and expand this resource to support territorial planners and public works staff.
• Community Projects: Students will co-lead projects like: native tree nursery development with We Grow Food, Inc.; heritage trail clean-up and interpretive sign design at Fort Segarra and Creque Marine Railway; public space revitalization at Smith Bay Ballpark; marine debris monitoring and beach clean-ups at Brewers Bay; and mangrove and sea turtle conservation service days.

All work products will be shared with DPNR, UVI, and community partners, ensuring lasting benefit beyond the students’ summer presence.

Requirements

Language and Coursework: None required.

Skills: GIS and experience with GPS a plus but not required. R programming language skills a plus. Ability to use Excel. Good written communication skills and experience with various social media platforms a plus.

Personal Qualities: Collaborative, adaptable, comfortable with exertional outdoor work, and able to engage respectfully across diverse cultural settings.

Logistics

Housing, meals, and transportation: Students will be housed in a shared living space. Meals will be prepared by students in an on-site kitchen. Transportation to work sites will be provided via van or official taxis. Students should expect hot, humid field conditions, ferry and water taxi travel to some sites, and weekend cultural excursions.

Local safety, security, and cultural norms: If you have special needs related to health, culture, disability, or religious practices, we encourage you to contact the program director(s) or the DukeEngage office to discuss whether your needs can be accommodated in this program.

For guidance on how race, religion, sexual/gender identity, ability, or other aspects of identity might impact your travels, we suggest exploring the Diversity, Identity and Global Travel section of the DukeEngage website.

Academic Connections

Open to all majors. Especially relevant to students interested in environmental science, climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, public policy, data science, and community resilience planning.