A Regional Approach to Shore Erosion Control in the State of Maryland

Coastal erosion is one of the most significant problems affecting Maryland's diverse coastal environment. Approximately 31% of Maryland's 7,020-kilometer coastline is experiencing some degree of coastal erosion, resulting in the loss of approximately 1.05 square kilometers of land per year. In January 2000, the Governor's Shore Erosion Task Force recommended development of a Comprehensive Erosion Control Plan for the State of Maryland. The Comprehensive Plan would coordinate erosion control planning and move Maryland away from the project-by-project approach currently used. In order to initiate statewide planning, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources established partnerships with two coastal counties. These partnerships have three concurrent components. First, data will be collected and analyzed for a portion of the county to provide both State and county planners with a clearer understanding of the economic, cultural and environmental costs of both shore erosion and sea level rise on a local basis. Second, erosion control needs and strategies will be examined and prioritized on a countywide basis, which will increase the effectiveness of erosion control activities and aid the county in soliciting federal and state funding. Finally, public outreach will be conducted to increase public understanding and awareness of erosion control issues and solutions. These partnerships will be used as templates for the development of the statewide components of the Maryland Comprehensive Shore Erosion Control Plan, which will assist in planning and prioritizing areas in need of assistance on a statewide basis.