The Virginia Senate on Tuesday announced the appointment of Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Virginia Policy Manager Jay Ford to the legislative committee dedicated to addressing recurrent flooding across the Commonwealth.
The Joint Subcommittee on Recurrent Flooding, comprised of members of the Virginia Senate, House of Delegates, and citizen representatives, will focus on developing comprehensive legislative solutions to aid communities in persistent problems related to Virginia’s most costly natural hazard: flooding.
The committee is charged with developing and recommending short- and long-term strategies to address the growing challenges posed by rising sea levels and increased rainfall, driven largely by climate change. Their work will directly impact the resilience and sustainability of communities throughout the state.
The Commonwealth has experienced a temperature increase of more than 1.5°F since the beginning of the 20th century, according to NOAA. Projections indicate further significant warming throughout this century, especially under higher air pollutant emissions scenarios.
Sea levels along Virginia's coastline are rising at an accelerating rate, exacerbating flood risks. Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore are particularly vulnerable, ranking among the most at-risk areas in the nation. Recent estimates show that 250,000 acres of land, 1,469 miles of roads, and property valued at $17.4 billion lie less than five feet above the high-tide line in Virginia.
Additionally, Virginia has seen an increase in heavy precipitation events, leading to more frequent and intense flooding, and an increase in the number of billion-dollar weather disaster events. These factors underscore the urgency of the committee's work.
Jay Ford, Virginia Policy Manager for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Managing Partner with the Old Dominion University (ODU) Institute for Coastal Adaptation and Resilience and CBF partnership, brings an extensive background in natural resource policy and resilience planning to the committee.
Ford released the following statement:
“I am deeply honored to join this vital committee and contribute to the development of solutions that will help Virginia communities navigate the increasing challenges of rising waters and intensified rainfall.
“The impacts of climate change are undeniable on our communities, coastlines, and economy. It is imperative that we work collaboratively to ensure our communities are prepared and resilient for the future.
“The committee’s efforts will help safeguard Virginia’s communities and natural resources for the next generation by emphasizing proactive, science-based approaches to mitigate flood risks and enhance community preparedness.”
Virginia Communications & Media Relations Manager, CBF
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804-258-1567
