Preservation in a Changing Climate Adapting Historic Resources for the Future

The recent Preservation in a Changing Climate Conference in Salem, Massachusetts, underscored the critical need for historic properties to adapt to climate change. Experts from various coastal cities discussed the urgent impact of rising sea levels and increased flooding on heritage sites. Christina Rae Butler highlighted Charleston's ongoing struggles with flooding, reflecting a broader trend affecting many historic communities. Provincetown's innovative climate adaptation plan, developed through public collaboration, offers flexible solutions like deployable flood barriers to protect its unique character. This proactive approach aims to balance heritage preservation with resilience against environmental changes.

The Climate Ready Boston report indicates that many of Boston's historic neighborhoods could face routine flooding by 2050, with some areas already seeing impacts. Historic property owners are increasingly elevating buildings to mitigate these risks, a shift in mindset since Hurricane Katrina. As communities adapt, new guidelines are emerging to preserve historic aesthetics while ensuring long-term sustainability.