The BDN Opinion section operates independently and does not set news policies or contribute to reporting or editing articles elsewhere in the newspaper or on bangordailynews.com
Owen Casas is a former Independent state representative and former town administrator for the town of South Thomaston.
As Maine’s beautiful coastline faces escalating threats from coastal erosion and rising sea levels, our small coastal communities and local businesses are at a crossroads. The looming challenges demand action, and one lifeline making its way through Congress could provide the necessary investments Maine needs to combat the increasing impacts of a warming climate. The Reinvesting in Shoreline Economies and Ecosystems Act (RISEE) offers a lifeline. By supporting the RISEE Act, we can protect Maine’s cherished coastlines, safeguard our local economies, and build a more diverse energy future. Fortunately, both Maine senators, Susan Collins and Angus King, recognize the need for innovative funding solutions as co-sponsors of this bill. Congress now needs to follow suit.
Our coastal communities are more than just beautiful landscapes; they are extremely important to Maine’s economy. Small businesses, from fishing and tourism to retail and hospitality, thrive on the unique charm and natural beauty of our shores. But these businesses are increasingly vulnerable to the destructive forces of a changing climate. Coastal erosion, intensified by rising sea levels, threatens to undermine the very foundation of these communities. In response, Maine has already appropriated over $65 million in a supplemental budget to help improve, maintain and repair infrastructure with the forethought of enhancing climate resiliency. Hundreds of towns across our state are taking advantage of this partnership and Maine should utilize the RISEE act to help offset some of these costs and diversify revenues.
The RISEE Act is a forward-thinking piece of legislation designed to address these threats head-on. By establishing dedicated revenue streams for coastal infrastructure projects, the RISEE Act will enable us to invest in critical upgrades and repairs to protect our shorelines. Like reinforcing seawalls and improving drainage systems to mitigate flooding. Such investments are not merely about preserving scenery; they are essential to sustaining the economy in our coastal communities.
The RISEE Act recognizes that our approach to coastal protection must be holistic. It promotes the reinvestment of funds into coastal ecosystems, which are vital for maintaining the health and resilience of our shorelines. Healthy ecosystems act as natural barriers against storm surges and erosion, providing a cost-effective and sustainable solution to many of our coastal challenges.
The benefits of the RISEE Act extend beyond immediate infrastructure needs. By supporting this legislation, we commit to fostering long-term economic stability and environmental stewardship. It ensures that Maine’s coastal communities are not left to grapple with these challenges alone. Instead, they receive the support needed to adapt, thrive, and continue to be the vibrant, essential parts of our state’s identity.
Critics may argue that such investments are costly, but the price of inaction is far greater. Without robust infrastructure and ecosystem support, the economic and environmental costs of coastal damage will escalate, potentially leading to more extensive and expensive needs in the future. The RISEE Act represents a proactive approach, mitigating risks before they spiral out of control and ensuring that our coastal communities remain resilient in the face of a changing environment.
As Mainers, we take pride in our ability to come together to address challenges with determination and foresight. The RISEE Act is an opportunity to uphold this tradition, safeguarding our coastlines and supporting the hardworking businesses and residents who call them home. It is time to act decisively and ensure that Maine’s coastal communities continue to thrive for generations to come.
