Bolinas flooding, 2018
In May, the California Coastal Commission (Coastal Commission) adopted 'Making California’s Coast Resilient to Sea Level Rise: Principles for Aligned State Action,' a set of six major principles to be implemented by a variety of state agencies that reflect unified, effective action toward sea-level rise resilience grounded in best available science, partnerships, alignment, communications and local support.
Develop and Utilize Best Available Science
Build Coastal Resilience Partnerships
Improve Coastal Resilience Communications
Support Local Leadership and Address Local Conditions
Strengthen Alignment around Coastal Resilience
Implement and Learn from Coastal Resilience Projects
Coastal Commission Executive Director, Jack Ainsworth, stated in his introductory remarks that “current science is projecting upwards of 7 feet of sea level rise by 2100.”
“These principles are consistent and complementary to the Coastal Commission’s ongoing effort to address sea level rise. Adoption of these principles will support and enhance the commission’s efforts to work with local governments, state agencies, tribes, members of the public and [others].”
Mr. Ainsworth clarified that these guidelines are not regulations. The Coastal Commission will continue to work closely with local governments and stakeholders. The Seadrift Property Owners Association and Marin County submitted comments raising some concerns. Some commenters raised concerns about the minimum target of 3.5 feet of sea level rise by 2150, which is stated in the principle document. This number is based on the Ocean Protection Council (OPC) guidance and best available science.
Mr. Ainsworth discussed that 3.5 feet is a target for planning preparation to create a meaningful margin of safety, as new models typically predict more sea level rise and impacts related to king tides. In practice, the Coastal Commission is already aiming to meet this target based on OPC and Coastal Commission guidance.
EAC supported this step forward towards strong coordinated state action by submitting brief written comments.
“We understand the importance of collaboration and aligned action among state agencies as our coastal villages adapt to sea level rise and climate change impacts. ”
The California Coastal Commission was following the lead of other state agencies including the State Lands Commission who adopted the principles at the end of April. Many state agencies worked collaboratively to develop these principles including the California Energy Commission, Caltrans, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Water Resources, OPC, State Coastal Conservancy, State Lands Commission, State Parks, and State Water Resources Control Board
“California is at a critical juncture for adapting to sea-level rise. A unified approach will lead to greater success in safeguarding our coastal public trust lands and resources.... Coordination and collaboration of our investments going forward will result in better solutions to the challenges of sea-level rise while benefiting our economy in these challenging times.”
Learn More:
State Lands Commission Press Release
State Lands Commission Staff Report
California Coastal Commission Staff Report
Principles: Making California’s Coast Resilient to Sea Level Rise: Principles for Aligned State Action
EAC Comment Letter to the California Coastal Commission
Press: June 4, April 30
