After reading this week’s lesson, I definitely believe that managed coastal retreat is an option that more vulnerable sites should consider.  PSU World Campus (2016) Module 8 commentary discusses the components of managed retreat; “ Coastal planning, Relocation and buy-back and Buy-Out programs, Regulating types of development allowed, Designating no-build areas, Habitat restoration, and Replacement of built environment with green space”.  I understand that for all these components to fall in to place a community must have the time, resources, and initiative to make it happen, but with projected sea level rise I believe managing the water is better than continually experiencing devastation.  We read examples of managed coastal retreat in the UK, and though buyback programs, development, and habitat restoration can be expensive, in the long run I could see how this would be a more cost-effective solution verses the continual expense of rebuilding infrastructures and coastal barriers.  One of the most challenging tasks will be convincing communities to give up on their homes, recreation spaces, and other beloved spaces.  Understandably, giving up your home is heartbreaking and this week’s video of the Isle de Jean Charles showcased individuals whose ancestors had called the island home for generations.

I found an article on the New York Times this week titled “At a Cape Cod Landmark, a Strategic Retreat from the Ocean” which highlighted how the community has come to accept and even embrace that a managed retreat is long term solution to some of their most prized recreational spaces.  At one of their most prized beaches the parking lot is slowly being washed away and instead of taking steps to preserve this coastal beach, they are retreating and relocating the parking lot further inland.  The article highlighted that many residents have acknowledged the vulnerability and are embracing the fact that things will have to change as the natural processes alter their coastal area.

I understand that managed coastal retreat in some cities and communities may not be feasible.  I cannot imagine relocating the city of New York, though we know it is vulnerable.  But, I think when managed retreat is a realistic option, more communities should embrace it.  I also think it is the responsibility of local, state, and federal officials to start putting more limitations on new constructions in these highly vulnerable areas.  To me, it makes more sense to plan, prepare, and know the outcome, verses living in uncertainty wondering when the next big storm will wash away the things you hold dear.

Pennsylvania State University World Campus (2016) Earth 107. Module 8 Commentary: Managed Retreat. Retrieved July 10, 2016. https://cms.psu.edu/section/content/default.asp?WCI=pgDisplay&WCU=CRSCNT&ENTRY_ID=404084F002F44F56AC62114B5A6F469F

Bidgood, J. (2016, July 06). At a Cape Cod Landmark, a Strategic Retreat From the Ocean. Retrieved July 10, 2016, from http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/07/us/at-a-cape-cod-landmark-a-strategic-retreat-from-the-ocean.html?_r=0