The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, along with a multitude of groups and community members, attended the annual Great Marsh Symposium on November 3^th, 2022 at Woodman’s in Essex. Hosted by the Great Marsh Coalition, the focus of this event was on the future of roadways through and within the marsh. With changing climates and rising seas, coastal infrastructure is more vulnerable to regular tidal inundation and storm events. As flooding becomes more frequent, access is restricted and coastal communities and infrastructure become more vulnerable. Communities across the Great Marsh are starting to plan for a changing climate by seeking out solutions to reduce vulnerability of critical infrastructure, including flood inundated roads. The annual convening of policy makers, scientists, government personnel, non-profit representatives, teachers, artists, and community members facilitated through the Great Marsh Symposium allowed for comprehensive and inclusive discussion on the future of our Marsh roadways.

The symposium sought to share multiple perspectives on this complex issue. First, municipal figures, including MVPC’s own Coastal Resources Coordinator, Peter Phippen, highlighted two current road improvement projects in Ipswich (Argilla Road) and Essex (Apple Street). Following these presentations, the NGO perspective was shared through a panel discussion around balancing road access with natural resource protection. Finally, participants were lead in table discussions around education and engagement by Climate Café students from the North Shore high school students. The event was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect in person and discuss the importance of thinking comprehensively about conservation within our unique coastal ecosystem.

Participants had the opportunity to leave comments

For more information about the coastal resource planning efforts at MVPC, check out our program page.

Photo Credits for this great event are courtesy of Carole McCauley, Engagement Manager at the Trustees.