Impact of Climate Change on Our Shoreline and Beaches

Shelburne Regional High has a very active environment club. The 20 members of O.N.E. (Our Natural Environment) Rebel Environment Club are from grades 7 – 12 and take their role as leaders in encouraging responsible stewardship seriously.
Students have recently partnered with the Municipality of Shelburne to participate in a long term study on the effect of climate change on the shoreline and beaches of Western Shelburne County.
Students will be collecting data from three beaches and river systems, Johnson’s Pond and Sable River, Louis Head Beach and Jordan River, and Roseway Beach and Roseway River. Students will be collecting data relating to water temperature, salinity, turbidity, and oxygen levels. During the visits to the beach sites the students will also be measuring the high water mark and collecting visual evidence of erosion, and learning about plant, bird and marine life and how they may be impacted by climate change.
The material the students collect will be compiled to help inform future decisions regarding our shorelines and shared with the local community, students and Municipal Councillors.
As part of GOMI (Gulf of Maine Institute) the students will also be sharing their findings with students from schools along the Gulf of Maine watershed in both Canada and the United States.
Students will also explore issues associated with land use and sustainability, the changing face of our beaches and shore lines, how decisions are made and who should be considered and the delicate balance that exists between nature and people.