Climate change is a primary threat to Virginia’s coastal resources, and addressing this threat is a priority for both Virginia and for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which supports state Coastal Zone Management Programs. 

The Virginia CZM Program is helping Virginia’s coastal communities build Coastal Resilience and prepare for the predicted effects of climate change, especially sea-level rise and coastal flooding. 

Over the last twenty years, the program has provided almost $5 million in federal funds and coordinated projects to improve coastal resilience. The Coastal Policy Team has helped target funds to address priority issues at the state, regional and local levels, including assessing and mapping the potential impacts of sea-level rise and severe storm events, and developing tools and plans to address these impacts. 

Community Resilience is the ability of coastal localities to adapt to changing conditions and to withstand the challenges brought about by a changing climate. Learn more.

Natural Resilience. Wetlands, beaches, and dunes are “edge” environments where water and land meet. They provide critical habitat and water quality protection, as well as a natural defense against the more frequent and severe storms and flooding resulting from climate change. Learn more.

Contact Jeff Flood at (804) 659-1918 for more information about the Virginia CZM Program's efforts to help build coastal resilience.