CRISFIELD, Md.- It is a problem that will not go away anytime soon, especially along Maryland's coastal and bay shoreline. Experts say the water is rising slowly, but at an accelerating rate.
When traveling across the small city of Crisfield in Somerset County, it is only a matter of time before you reach the end of the Crab Capital of the World. There, you will find the city dock, enclosed by part of the Chesapeake Bay that is currently frozen over from Tuesday's snowstorm.
Crisfield is one of several low-lying communities most vulnerable to a growing threat of rising sea level. Bill Reynolds of Crisfield tells WBOC it is a little scary to think about the impact on the community decades from now.
“It's a scary thought more for my children and their families,” Reynolds said.
Scientists report the rising sea level in Maryland has caused tiny islands on the Chesapeake to vanish. Low-lying farms and forests have turned into marshes.
Michael Corbin lives on Smith Island and has seen the effects of erosion from high water levels.
"I have seen rapid deterioration of banks and areas over there [Smith Island] that have washed away," Corbin said.
According to Somerset County officials, experts have reported that the sea level is rising all across the globe, but in Maryland scientists have found that the water level is rising three times faster than the worldwide average.
The League of Women Voters of Maryland and Chesapeake College are teaming up to educate people in communities like Crisfield about the problem. Organizers will hold its “The Future is Now: Dealing with Rising Seas on Maryland's Shores” forum this Saturday, February 21st from 9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Federal, state and local officials will join environmental experts to discuss possible solutions and decisions that must be made to prevent severe impact. Officials will talk about what to do with buildings and roads in low-lying areas; where to erect seawalls; what additional areas may have to be put off limits to commercial and residential developments and more.
The deadline to register and pay for the forum ended Monday, but Somerset County officials encourage people to call the Department of Technical and Community Services at (410) 651-1424 for information. Those who are interested should inquire about the next free session as well.
