The Wiscasset Climate Action Team (WCAT) is making strides to prepare the town for the effects of climate change by joining  the Maine Community Resilience Partnership. Members of the team are passionate about creating a resilient future for their community and have voiced their reasons for involvement in this crucial initiative.

"I care deeply about our town being ready for the changes in our climate," expressed a WCAT chair, Cassaundra Rose. "I'm inspired by how many in our community joined our public workshop and gave their thoughts on our climate survey."

"I really care about what's happening here, especially for the kids growing up. Their future matters," added Jan Hobbs-Bailey, WCAT member. "I want to make a difference and support the needs of the next generation."

Shri Verrill has been working alongside WCAT, providing support and guidance as the town navigates the enrollment process as their service provider. She commended the committee’s commitment to its work. "The committee members have shown admirable dedication by coming together to address these (climate) challenges.”

Through two recent public workshops, the community actively engaged in prioritizing climate action items, addressing climate change impacts most concerning to residents. The following priorities emerged from a robust engagement process: Conduct a community vulnerability assessment identifying climate risks to vulnerable populations and reviewing existing plans and policies. Adopt a climate resilience plan outlining high-priority strategies for reducing risk and vulnerabilities; assess vulnerabilities of critical community infrastructure considering climate hazards, susceptibility to damage, and consequences of impairment or failure; communication and education about climate impacts and solutions; ensure town infrastructure, like roads, railroads, bridges and Wiscasset’s wastewater treatment plant, are climate-ready; implement energy efficiency and weatherization improvements for municipal buildings, collaborating with the local school district for school building improvements; and identify and protect areas for living shorelines and saltmarsh migration.

On Jan. 16, WCAT will propose a municipal resolution to the selectboard to act on these priority items. These priority items will also inform Wiscasset’s application for a $50,000 Community Action Grant from the Community Resilience Partnership. Community members are encouraged to reach out to Cassaundra Rose at Wiscassetclimate@gmail.com with any feedback or queries regarding the priorities proposed to be documented in the municipal resolution.

This initiative reflects WCAT's dedication to creating a resilient, sustainable future for Wiscasset. Together, the community aims to address climate challenges and build a better tomorrow.

For more information, please contact Rose at Wiscassetclimate@gmail.com