Chesapeake Rising: Innovative Law and Policy Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Coastal Communities

Coastal communities in the Mid-Atlantic region, particularly those historically underserved and overburdened, are already experiencing the impacts of climate change. Sea level rise and more frequent and severe storms pose significant threats to coastal areas, making adaptation not just necessary but essential. Science, law, and policy are vital to navigating this shifting landscape.

The Chesapeake Rising: Innovative Law and Policy Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Coastal Communities symposium was held April 2, 2025, in Washington, DC. The symposium explored key legal and policy considerations that affect climate adaptation strategies. It aimed to foster an exchange of ideas on how coastal communities can respond to climate change.

Experts discussed the status and challenges of climate adaptation in coastal regions, and law students and early career professionals shared innovative solutions and research. Attendees also had the chance to engage in action-oriented conversations about climate adaptation.

Keynote speakers included Secretary Serena McIlwain of the Maryland Department of the Environment and Vicki Arroyo, Georgetown Law Professor from Practice and former Associate Administrator for Policy at the US Environmental Protection Agency.

This project was made possible by a grant to Maryland Sea Grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce through the National Sea Grant Law Center.

Symposium Materials

The Chesapeake Rising: Innovative Law and Policy Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Coastal Communities symposium featured keynote speakers, expert panelists, law student research, and breakout sessions. 

View the symposium briefing book.

Stay Tuned for a Chesapeake Rising Edition of the National Sea Grant Law & Policy Journal

Students who presented their research at the Chesapeake Rising symposium have honed their concepts into law review articles which will be published by the National Sea Grant Law & Policy Journal. 

Check back for the release of this special issue to learn more about a variety of policy topics related to coastal communities and climate resiliency in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Chesapeake Rising: Innovative Law and Policy Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Coastal Communities was hosted by Maryland Sea Grant in collaboration with the National Sea Grant Law Center, the Environmental Law Institute, the Georgetown Climate Center, and the University of Maryland Agriculture Education Initiative.