The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust plans to host Susie Arnold, marine scientist at the Island Institute, for a lecture on sea level rise and its current and projected impacts on our region.

The virtual lecture will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 3, and provide insights into the science of sea level rise as well as the actions being taken by coastal communities to reduce its effects.

Participants can ask questions during the Q&A portion of the lecture.

Arnold participates in the Maine Climate Council, which has determined that sea level rise could impact 20,000 jobs, cause $17.5 billion in coastal infrastructure damage, and increase flooding events ten-fold by 2050, according to a news release from the trust.

As marine scientist at the Island Institute, Arnold works on the impacts of climate change and ocean acidification on marine resources and fisheries-dependent communities. Her areas of focus include working with fishermen to diversify their businesses to include shellfish and seaweed aquaculture, researching the environmental benefits of farming edible seaweed, and helping coastal communities better understand the implications of sea level rise so they can make informed adaptation decisions.

Arnold earned a master’s degree in Marine Policy and a doctoral degree in Marine Biology from the University of Maine.

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust, based out of Bath, is a membership-supported organization dedicated to protecting the land, water, and wildlife of the Kennebec Estuary. It maintains 12 preserves for public enjoyment and has protected 4,100-plus acres of land since founding in 1989.

Registration is free and required in order to receive the Zoom link for the presentation. The Zoom link will be sent out to registrants upon registration.

For more information and to sign up, visit kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events or call 207-442-8400.