By Jesse Brown
It is possible that in your lifetime there will be less beach, marsh, and other coastal landmass then there exists today. The warming of our planet has already caused a small rise in sea levels, and many climate scientists predict that the ocean will continue to rise, submerging more and more shoreline area. The latest estimate suggests that by 2100, the sea level could be as much as three feet higher that current levels. In the Bay Area, this means that a significant amount our shoreline could be underwater.
As the climate changes, so will our coasts. While there will be enormous costs involved to ensure the safety and productivity of these areas, we have the tools to succeed in making the necessary changes. But who decides what the new coast will have or look like? Scientists, engineers and local government will surely have their say, but hopefully so will the residents that will live with these changes.
If you are a resident of North Richmond, Richmond, and San Pablo we need your opinions about shoreline! On May 6th, residents are encouraged to attend the free guided tour of the North Richmond Shoreline. Attendees will learn about the current coastal ecology and visit the newly opened Dotson Marsh. After the tour, folks will have the opportunity to share what they want the coast to look like. Should there be more hiking trails, restaurants, or places to fish? We want to know your thoughts! This community visioning activity will be followed by a free picnic lunch at the beautiful Point Pinole. Make your voice heard, and have an important impact on the way future generations use and enjoy the shoreline.
For more information or to RSVP for the North Richmond Shoreline Tour and Community Visioning please contact the project coordinator Jesse Brown at jesse@thewatershedproject.org. Because space is limited, the tour is only open to North Richmond, Richmond, and San Pablo residents.
