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UMCES’ research and expertise is a vital component of Maryland's efforts to address the causes and consequences of climate change. We provide the scientific background and perspective that helps Maryland's decision-makers chart the path towards a better environmental future.
To help strengthen the State's plans and programs for combatting climate change, UMCES chairs the Science and Technical Working Group of the Maryland Commission on Climate Change.
Fighting surging seas
It is not an uncommon sight to see flooding from storm surges and high tides in some low-lying communities on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. With rising tidal ranges and threats of flooding from more intense storms, coastal communities are having to face harsh realities and decide on potential solutions to encroaching seas. Ming Li’s research focuses on the threats coastal communities face and potential solutions to the rising tides, as the impacts of climate change grow. MORE
Climate change reveals itself through shifts in Maryland weather
If you’ve noticed that when it rains these days, it really pours—you’re right. The Chesapeake region receives about 4.5 inches more of rain per year than it did a century ago. This is what climate change looks like. Victoria Coles and Raleigh Hood have been working to help the public visualize how much climate in the Chesapeake Bay region has changed during their lifetimes. They examined 114 years of data and found clear evidence that physical climate changes are well underway and species and habitats are responding those changes. MORE
Warming climate will impact dead zones in Chesapeake Bay
In recent years, scientists have projected increasingly large summer dead zones in the Chesapeake Bay, areas where there is little or no oxygen for living things like crabs and fish to thrive, even as long-term efforts to reduce nutrient pollution continue. Researchers warn that climate may also have significant impact that could change the equation for nutrient reduction goals. MORE
Warmer winters could lead to longer blue crab season
Scientists are predicting that warmer winters in the Chesapeake Bay will likely lead to longer and more productive seasons for Maryland’s favorite summer crustacean, the blue crab. Understanding warming trends critical to effectively managing ecosystems in the face of a changing climate. MORE
Related research
- Climate change already affecting Chesapeake Bay region
- Warming climate will impact dead zones in Chesapeake Bay
- Chesapeake Bay surface water temperature is increasing over time
- Warming climate triggers changes in forests
- Fish facing warming waters
- Acidification in Chesapeake Bay could threaten ability of oysters to create and maintain their shells
- Impacts of ocean warming, sea-level rise and coastline management
- Chesapeake Bay Surface Water Temperature Increasing Over Time