Rising Sea Level

The water surrounding Maryland's coasts is slowly but steadily creeping up. Sea level rise, a consequence of global climate change, threatens property, livelihoods, and even lives on Maryland’s coasts. Studies show that sea levels are already rising around Maryland.

Scientists have forecasted a likely increase of 0.8 to 1.6 feet in the Chesapeake Bay by 2050, relative to year 2000 water levels. By the end of this century, that number could exceed 4 feet. Scientists have identified several reasons:

• As oceans around the world grow hotter, they also expand because of the chemistry of salt water.
• Glaciers and ice caps, including the icy regions around Greenland, are melting.
• Since the end of the last ice age, the land around Maryland has been naturally sinking a tiny bit each year.

Maryland Sea Grant Extension specialists partner with local governments, state and federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and residents to support local efforts for improving coastal climate resilience. We work with coastal communities to help them understand the effects of climate change and sea level rise and prepare for climate-related hazards. We also assist communities with identifying areas of vulnerability and incorporating climate adaptation into their planning efforts. Through workshops, surveys, and town-hall meetings, we share information about coastal resilience work to facilitate partnerships and collaborations among interested parties throughout the region.

Find out more about our efforts to support climate adaptation in coastal communities.