There is now overwhelming scientific evidence that indicates changes in the pattern of global climate. On the local level we have all witnessed changes in temperatures, precipitation and storm events. In our coastal areas, in particular, communities, beaches, ponds and salt marshes all have experienced noticeable increases in sea-level. This phenomenon has been examined in this video, using a case study located in the "Ocean State", Rhode Island.
The method of marsh restoration illustrated here is variously known as thin-layer deposition and sediment or elevation enhancement. The basic intent is to raise the marsh surface by several inches of dredged sediments to avoid future high tides and flooding events. Taking on this project as an environmental film maker became a real challenge for me. Building coastal habitat resilience is a complex process and requires the resources and experience of many stakeholders including all levels of government.
I hope that this video will inform you of the challenges involved in habitat restoration as well as spark a sense of encouragement of getting you interested in issues of climate change that might effect your community. Become a citizen scientist or join a local organization dedicated to protecting natural resources from climate change for future generations.
Rhode Island has long been in the forefront of coastal resources management. In 1972 the State completed a state-wide coastal zone management plan, the first of its kind in the Nation. More recently we installed five offshore wind turbines in state waters, as the first in the country. Now we are testing new methods in marsh restoration. All these efforts are due, in large part, to two Rhode Island senators, John Chafee(1922-1999) and currently senator Sheldon Whitehouse. Both have spent much of their political career promoting national legislation designed to mitigate climate change and building community and coastal habitat resilience.