"Shrinking Shores," An Informational Event About Sea Level Rise at Poplar Beach in Half Moon Bay

Article Source: County of San Mateo CA

Social Media Coordinator Christa Bigue County of San Mateo

"Shrinking Shores," An Informational Event About Sea Level Rise at Poplar Beach in Half Moon Bay

On Saturday, June 3, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., the County of San Mateo's Office of Sustainability and City of Half Moon Bay will host an informational event about sea level rise at Poplar Beach, as part of a statewide campaign called "Shrinking Shores." It’s one of many events around the state that will be held in anticipation of World Oceans Day, (June 8), a global day of ocean celebration and collaboration for a better future.

At Poplar Beach on June 3, beachgoers will see a dramatic illustration about projected ocean levels and bluff retreat through the end of the century. Temporary signs will be placed into the sand and on the bluffs to depict scenarios of future sea level rise and bluff erosion. The City and County will staff a booth near the Poplar Beach parking lot where visitors can get information, ask questions, and learn about the science behind the projected changes. Poplar Beach is located at the end of Poplar Street, past Railroad Avenue in Half Moon Bay.

Half Moon Bay, the County, and other agencies on the California coast from San Diego to Humboldt County, are working to create awareness of this critical issue. The goal is to educate and inform people, and build a greater understanding of sea level rise and its impacts on our coastline and communities.

On a statewide basis, sea level rise is already threatening billions of dollars’ worth of homes, businesses, roads, and infrastructure. Local governments are working to inform their communities by assessing what is vulnerable to rising tides and creating opportunities for residents to learn and get involved in addressing these expected environmental changes. The newest California State Sea Level Rise Science Report estimates sea level increases by up to eight feet by the year 2100, and the City is prepared to collaborate with Federal, State, and local agencies to educate and address the causes and effects of climate change.

“The 'Shrinking Shores' event is a great opportunity to learn more about sea level rise and visualize how it could affect our beaches and bluffs," said San Mateo County Supervisor Don Horsley, D3. "Sea level rise is not just an issue for the future. We are already experiencing impacts from erosion and storms along our coast, underscoring the need to study and plan ahead for sea level rise now. The County is pleased to join others throughout the State of California in raising awareness about this critical issue on World Oceans Day.”

The County and its Sea Change SMC initiative has produced a Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment, which identifies the County-wide impacts of sea level rise. This report can be found at the Sea Change SMC Initiative website, www.seachangesmc.com. The Initiative brings together and provides resources to local governments and agencies within San Mateo County around the issue of sea level rise.

Located 28 miles south of San Francisco, the City of Half Moon Bay is a community of about 12,500 people, situated on the peninsula between forested hills and some of the most beautiful coastlines that California has to offer. Its historic downtown is home to numerous shops, art galleries, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, and other businesses, and its celebrated beaches and parks are wonders of nature, accessible to pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians. With its many activities and events, beautiful natural scenery, old-town charm, and abundance of retail and commercial services, Half Moon Bay is a regional destination. The City’s website is www.hmbcity.com.

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Robert Riechel

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Photo Credit: San Bruno CA Patch Archives

Source Credit: County of SanMateo CA

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