Surfers and beach-goers are ‘canaries in a coal mine’ when it comes to threats to our ocean, waves and beaches. We are the first to see impacts from pollution, poorly planned coastal development, and obstructed beach access.

And as our climate continues to change, Surfers and beach-goers will undoubtedly see more impacts to ocean and coastal recreation. Scientists predict climate change will cause more frequent and intense storms, hurricanes, sea level rise, ocean acidification, heat waves, and other extreme weather events which will change our recreational experience. But exactly how will climate change impact our favorite ocean and beach activities?

[C]limate change impacts will affect everything from sandcastle building to surfing.  Scientists predict that sea levels could rise up to six-feet by 2100.  An increase this large will swallow beaches—impacting public access, beach recreation, and healthy ecosystems. Beach erosion from increased storms will also chip away at our beaches.  With less sand beach-goers will have a completely different recreational experience in the future.

Read the full article about climate change and recreation by Stefanie Sekich-Quinn at Surfrider Foundation.