Stinson Beach Sea Rise Meeting Next Week

SAN RAFAEL, CA — Marin County leaders next week are scheduled to walk residents through the findings of a new report on the long-term flood risks for Stinson Beach, resulting from predicted rises in ocean levels in the decades ahead.

"We need to know what the future might look like in order for us to plan for adaptations," said Jack Liebster, a retired planning manager at the Community Development Agency. "We've been diligent and straightforward with the scientific realities as we look at all the 'what if's.'"

County officials said Stinson Beach, an unincorporated seaside community in Marin County, suffered the brunt of atmospheric rivers in January. Storm surges racked up thousands of dollars in damage, and one beach had to close to vehicles for weeks. Worse days could be ahead.

"Hundreds of homes and other infrastructure are at risk of a 100-year coastal storm or a 100-year flood from Easkoot Creek," the county said Monday. "Strong winter storms have potential to erode the beach width, affecting visitation at one of Marin's most popular beaches. Nearly half of all Stinson parcels are exposed to emergent or shallow groundwater, putting septic and underground utilities at risk."

The CDA's new report, published late last month, outlines how the area's natural resources, houses and infrastructure could be impacted by rising sea levels in the years to come. During an online meeting scheduled for May 18, planners will overview those impacts, share sea level projections and answer community questions surrounding the report.

The latest meeting follows one last month where officials said attendees shared positive feedback about the project, which is part of the CDA's broader effort to develop a roadmap for adapting to rising sea levels.

Residents can register to attend the meeting via Zoom and keep up with the project on the CDA's website.