A coastal flood study for Lincoln County launched in 2011 that investigates potential impacts of rising sea levels has just received a small infusion of cash. County Commissioners approved the recent allocation of approximately $4,900 to go toward the Lincoln County Coastal Hazard – Sea Level Rise Project during their January 15 meeting. 

The county acquired the money from work competed by Lincoln County planner Bob Faunce last year, according to county administrator John O'Connell. 

These funds are added to the $8,000 cost for the county share of this project. According to a synopsis of the study, it is a collaboration between the county commission, the Maine Geological Survey and the Maine Coastal Program. 

The recently added funds will pay for a “buildings layer,” according to Mary Ellen Barnes, director of economic and community development at the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission. Data collected on the dimensions, size and locations of buildings will be used in mapping the coastal areas that are being scrutinized. 

The study looks at the 450 miles of tidal coastline in Lincoln County, as described on the commission website. According to the study, sea levels have risen half a foot over the past 100 years and scientists expect an additional two to three feet rise in sea level over the next 100 years.

The goals of the project are to see the potential impacts of rising sea levels under a number of scenarios on existing infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, sewage treatment plants, and other buildings and facilities.