Sea Level Is Risen. Storms Are a Certainty. Now What?

The global-warming debate gives the impression that sea-level rise and increased coastal hazards are a future concern; uncertain as to how much, how soon. An IPCC report indicates that the global, average sea level rise from 1993-2003 measured directly via satellite was 3.1 mm/yr, an increasingly rapid rate. No matter; sea level is risen, and coastal storms a certainty, regardless of whether global warming increases their intensity and frequency. Decades of coastal studies and increasing focus on planning has not checked the global trend of coastal-zone population growth and development. Coastal planners/managers can not wait for the answer to the causes of global warming, and must make decisions now regarding land-use plans and regulations.

Fortunately, simple, economically-viable steps can significantly reduce property damage and loss of life; e.g., for barrier islands the key is to view entire islands as well as adjacent nearshore sea floor and onshore mainland as part of an integrated system. Recognition of active processes is fundamental to defining hazard areas. Then, a process-oriented perspective allows risk-zone identification based on measurable parameters such as erosion rates, flood and overwash zones, zones of potential inlet formation and inlet expansion/migration. A process perspective gives insight into repairing existing damage to the natural environment, e.g., restoring beaches, rebuilding excavated interior dunes, plugging dune gaps, reestablishing maritime forest, curving roads around natural island topography, or putting roads/walkways over rather than through such features. In addition, steps can be taken to augment natural protective capabilities of coastal environments, e.g., planting marsh grass to slow estuarine shoreline erosion, beach replenishment, dune construction, and encouraging forest growth. Planning can avoid hazard enhancement by preserving and restoring coastal environments. Relocation plans for buildings and entire communities can also be planned with foresight.