Special meeting on climate change set for Wednesday

On Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. a multi commission meeting on climate issues and how to adapt in Santa Cruz County.The joint meeting will also include presentations on salmon recovery and the effects of sea level rise in the county. With higher sea levels come stronger waves, and that leads to more erosion — a big problem as many in the county live right next to the ocean.

“That’s the challenge moving forward. How do we select the best way to address these vulnerabilities that meet all of our goals? The climate is going to change and we can’t rely on our history moving forward. That’s where the science comes in, to give us insight on how to adapt,” said Director of Central Coast Wetlands Group at Moss landing Marine Laboratories, Ross Clark.

Some of the top areas in Santa Cruz County for erosion or flooding include; West Cliff Drive, Pleasure Point, Pajaro Dunes and Rio Del Mar.

Among others, UCSC Professor of Earth Sciences Dr. Gary Griggs will have a 30-minute presentation followed by Q&A Wednesday night. The event is free and the public is invited to attend.

WHAT: Biennial Climate Action Strategy Meeting

WHERE: Board of Supervisors chambers, 5th floor, 701 Ocean St., Santa Cruz

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 27, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.