The impacts of climate change have hit home this winter. So much rain, so many storms. Coastal roads are flooding with regularity. Coastal banks and beaches are eroding away. Main access roads to the hospital are closed during storms. After each one we pick ourselves up and go about our business. But it’s only going to get worse, especially as the sea rises.

We need to think ahead, to plan, to act. What can we protect? What coastal sites will we have to give up? What will happen to our economy as the changes get more drastic? The coastal environment is the foundation of our economy. The environment and economy are completely intertwined. This is not just a problem for those who look after our coast. It is a problem for businesses, homeowners, taxpayers, realtors, insurers, local government leaders and the children who will live on a very different Island.

And it’s not just the coast at risk. Higher temperatures will impact human health. Weather changes will affect the crops we grow. Salt water will saturate our wells. Heavy rains are flooding basements.

We need to look at the big picture — the community at large. It’s all connected: the environment, the economy, our health, our food, our shelter. It’s a daunting but critical challenge for this Island community.

Liz Durkee
Oak Bluffs