PREP-RI: Planning for Resilience in Rhode Island
Training & educational resources for Rhode Island communities
About PREP-RI
PREP-RI (Providing Resilience Education for Planning in Rhode Island) is an educational initiative developed by Rhode Island Sea Grant at the request of the Rhode Island Division of Statewide Planning to help communities better understand and prepare for coastal hazards, flooding, sea level rise, and climate change impacts.
Through seven self-guided modules, participants explore topics including climate science, flood management, infrastructure vulnerabilities, adaptation planning, mapping tools, and local resilience strategies. Modules combine Rhode Island-specific data, planning tools, case studies, and practical guidance to support informed community planning and decision-making.
Explore PREP-RI
PREP-RI modules are available to anyone as a public educational resource. Watch the modules online and explore the accompanying downloadable resources to learn more about resilience planning in Rhode Island.
Required Training
PREP-RI also supports state-required training for local planning and zoning board members and historic district commission members under R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-70-3. Participants completing PREP-RI to meet this requirement should access the training through Brightspace, complete the required modules and associated quizzes, and receive credit for completion through the Rhode Island Division of Statewide Planning.
WHO IT’S FOR
Municipal Boards & Commissions
Training resources designed to support local planning, land use, and resilience-related decision-making in Rhode Island communities.
Municipal Staff & Local Officials
Practical information and planning tools to help communities prepare for flooding, sea level rise, and coastal hazards.
Community Organizations & Leaders
Educational materials that support community engagement, outreach, and local resilience initiatives.
Emergency Management & Resilience Practitioners
Rhode Island-specific information and case studies related to hazard mitigation, adaptation planning, and preparedness.
Residents & Lifelong Learners
Accessible educational resources for anyone interested in understanding coastal resilience, flooding, and climate impacts in Rhode Island.
Students & Educators
Self-guided learning materials that can support classroom instruction, independent study, and public education efforts.
Course Modules
Each module includes a brief audio presentation (a 12- to 14-minute voice-over PowerPoint), presentation notes, and a downloadable resource guide with additional information, tools, and resources.
Navigate the legal and policy frameworks governing coastal resilience.
Understand flood dynamics and management practices to protect communities.
Dive into stormwater management techniques to reduce urban flooding.
Explore the science of climate change and its impacts on Rhode Island communities.
Assess the vulnerabilities of infrastructure in coastal areas and explore solutions.
Learn about adaptation strategies to enhance community resilience.
Utilize mapping tools for effective coastal planning and risk assessment.
Complete PREP-RI Training
Complete the PREP-RI course through the University of Rhode Island’s Brightspace platform to earn your certification. Follow these steps to get started:
1
Access the Course
Log in to the University of Rhode Island’s Brightspace platform to access the course materials.
2
Complete the Modules and Quizzes
Work through the seven PREP-RI modules and complete the associated quizzes.
3
Receive Credit for Completion
Participants who complete the training receive credit through the Rhode Island Division of Statewide Planning.
Partners and Acknowledgments
Get in Touch
Phone
For inquiries about the PREP-RI training program, please contact Casey Tremper at (401) 874-6493.