With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline, Marylanders are accustomed to living in and around water. In Annapolis and many coastal communities, high tide or “nuisance” flooding has increased dramatically since the start of the century, and scientists expect that trend to continue as rising water and sinking land impacts these low-lying areas. More frequent and stronger rain events have caused devastation and disruption in coastal and non-coastal communities alike.

As climate change impacts our communities and economies with more water and changing coastlines, we can work with nature to adapt strategically and sustainably. Natural systems grow and change, becoming more robust and effective over time. These features help mitigate greenhouse gases by taking in carbon dioxide.

Attendees will hear from state agency experts, project partners, and practitioners about restoration techniques being implemented in our state that appear to be better at responding to climate pressures and demonstrate how nature-based solutions can enhance community resilience to the impacts of climate change.