Preparing For Climate Change - Sea Level Affecting Marsh Migration

The third “Preparing for Climate Change” workshop will be held on September 10th at the Hampton Falls Fire Department (3 Drinkwater Road) from 6:00pm until 7:30pm. This workshop will build upon the concerns and actions items identified in the last workshop with regards to the potential impacts of sea level rise to salt marshes.

In a presentation about “Sea Level Affecting Marsh Migration,” attendees will learn about a spatial computer model that uses historical and current wetland data to predict how marshes will be affected over time as sea levels rise. The model will produce maps that compare current and future conditions based on different sea-level rise scenarios out to the year 2100. Small group discussions will focus on how these maps can be used by the individual towns and collectively when applied to issues such as land acquisition, infrastructure placement, or ordinance development.

Residents, town officials, board/commission members, and business owners in Hampton, Seabrook and Hampton Falls are encouraged to attend and participate in these workshops. There is no cost to attend, and light refreshments will be served. Registration (http://tinyurl.com/lfxfqef) is not required, but is appreciated. For more information, please email chris.keeley@unh.edu.org, or call 603-862-6707.

The following workshop, on Oct 8th will include a presentation on the Community Rating System (which can impact local flood insurance rates) by the NH Office of Energy and Planning, and an overview of an upcoming project involving municipal regulations audits.

This series of workshops is funded by a grant from the New Hampshire Coastal Program. It is managed by staff from the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, and NH Sea Grant.