PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • July 9, 2021
Maine’s coastline will feel the effects of climate change for generations. Rising seas and increasingly dangerous storm surge events threaten our local infrastructure and economies. One of the best ways to protect us is to invest in coastal projects like shoreline stabilization and wetland restoration. Both offer environmental and economic benefits that can help our communities plan for the future. It is important that federal funding be appropriated as a new grant program in order to enhance equity and address environmental justice needs. Maine could address essential projects such as restoring Atlantic salmon habitat in the Dennys River watershed; or reestablishing critical tidal exchange to upstream wetlands in the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. We are counting on our federal delegation to push for a comprehensive funding package to protect Mainers who make their living and reside by the rising seas. ~ Rep. Lydia Blume, York, and Rep. Sarah Pebworth, Blue Hill