Issue Position: The Environment and Climate Resiliency

Issue Position

There is new data and mapping from the Department of Environmental Management that points to flooding, drought and storms in RI and the science reveals that we are being impacted by sea level rise and intense, sustained rain events. Rhode Islanders want their government to provide guidance using the latest scientific information, prepare for the problems and plan the solutions. We need to reduce the risks to our seaside businesses and properties. To wait may be more costly for our communities. http://www.beachsamp.org/stormtools/

I've been involved with elected and appointed officials and town/state agencies working with the SNEP Network (Southern New England Program) in conjunction with the Environmental Protection agency. SNEP provides training and assistance to municipalities to advance stormwater and watershed management, ecological restoration, and climate resilience in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. It's imperative that municipalities investigate and build revenue sources over the next decades to combat the effects of sea level rise and climate change. This is one of Rhode Island's most pressing challenges.

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