Rebuilding and protecting our shoreline

Last summer, Tropical Storm Irene ravaged Connecticut’s shoreline, destroying homes, businesses, and precious habitats. Parts of the state recovered quickly from the storm, but for those along the shoreline, it has taken months to rebuild; for some, the process is still ongoing.

Sea level rise and intensifying storms are increasing concerns as climate change impacts continue to build. According to a recent  New York Times article,

“Projections vary for the rate of sea-level rise in Long Island Sound, but a new report from Climate Central, a nonprofit research organization, predicts a rise of 12 inches by 2050. Maine and Rhode Island already include sea-level rise as a factor in their coastal management statutes.”

While we may need to provide certain safeguards for homes, infrastructure, and public access, we must also protect tidal wetlands, dune systems, and other natural resources that can be damaged by poorly planned development and seawalls. Additionally, expanding these natural resources as part of a “living shoreline” are an essential part of the solution, as they serve to buffer communities from waves and storms.

Read the rest of this post at our blog, Green Cities Blue Waters, here.