Sea level rise and intensifying coastal storms pose increased risks of flooding in the New York and New Jersey area. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is now studying a range of options to reduce flooding risks, ranging from building a massive system of gates, floodwalls and levees to taking no action. The choice will have important environmental, economic and social consequences for the region. This public forum will include presentations from the Corps of Engineers about the nature and status of the study; from an earth scientist about the nature of the flooding risks; and by a proponent and an opponent of storm barriers. A question and answer period will follow.

Speakers

Col. Thomas Asbery, Chief New York District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Prof. Jacqueline Austermann, Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences, Columbia University

Prof. Malcolm J. Bowman, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University

Paul Gallay, President, Riverkeeper

Moderator

Prof. Michael B. Gerrard, Director, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, Columbia Law School

Sponsored by Sabin Center for Climate Change Law and The Earth Institute