The Eastern Shore of Virginia: Strategies for Adapting to Climate Change
This report examines climate change impacts on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, including sea level rise, coastal flooding, erosion and drought. It summarizes findings from workshops, LiDAR analysis and research, and presents strategies to support resilient communities, protect ecosystems and guide adaptation planning across the region.
Subject Tags
- Climate resilience
- Coastal
- Climate adaptation
Introduction
This report examines the impacts of global climate change on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, a dynamic coastal region shaped by barrier islands, wetlands and working landscapes. It highlights key risks including accelerating sea level rise, coastal flooding, erosion, drought and changing precipitation patterns that will affect communities, infrastructure and ecosystems. Through expert workshops, scientific literature review and LiDAR based vulnerability assessments, the study evaluates how these changes may alter natural systems and human uses of the landscape. The report presents a shared vision for adaptation, where coastal habitats remain productive, communities are resilient and natural resource based economies continue to thrive. It outlines priority strategies including local adaptation planning, shoreline management, habitat restoration, groundwater protection and education efforts. The findings provide guidance to support resilience, inform decision making and advance climate adaptation across the Eastern Shore.