The Chesapeake at the Crossroads
The fragile ecosystems of the Chesapeake Bay region and Maryland's
Eastern Shore are already experiencing the effects of sea level
rise as evidenced by increased shore erosion and the submergence
of local island habitats. Climate change poses a serious threat
to this area, not only from the potential rise in sea levels caused
by thermal expansion and the melting of glaciers, but also from
changing water temperatures and salinity.
Dr. Stephen Leatherman, co-chairman of the Climate Institute's
Board of Directors and Director of the University of Maryland's
Laboratory for Coastal Research, is working with the Institute
to host a two-day conference to be funded by the US EPA at Washington
College in Chestertown, Maryland, October 18 -19, 1996 which will
focus on the "Chesapeake at the Crossroads." Over the years, the
Bay has faced numerous environmental hazards -- but the combined
forces of climate change and sea level rise, compounded by population
growth and urbanization, threaten to nullify the efforts that
have been taken to "Save the Bay." This conference will highlight
the significance of these cross-cutting issues, with presentations
and panel discussions by state and local policymakers, residents,
and other constituents.
A reception will be held Friday evening at the College to showcase
the current research efforts and programs addressing issues in
the Bay area. Dr. Leatherman will present his award-wining film
Vanishing Lands , and local environmental and government
groups will have a chance to display their work. On Saturday,
participants will attend one of five sessions on various issues
related to climate change and sea level rise. Possible topics
include: Implications for Agriculture, Increasing Awareness: A
Workshop for Educators, the Great Wetlands Controversy, Bedrooms
or Beaches: Issues of Shoreline Development, and the IPCC: The
Bigger Picture. Attendees will convene for lunch to hear a brief
recap of results from all the breakout sessions. After the conference
adjourns, participants will be encouraged to take advantage of
the area's resources. Information on local attractions and activities
will be distributed. For more information, please contact Michele
Pena at (202) 547-0104, or via e-mail at climateinst@igc.apc.org.
