Elevation Zero

When it comes to climate change, one thing is certain: our oceans are rising. And South Florida is expected to be among the first regions on Earth to experience the impact. In fact, some initial preparations are already underway. WLRN-Miami Herald News presents a series of stories about the effects of sea-level rise. The project is called “Elevation Zero: Rising Seas In South Florida." Click through the pages below to see our entire archive of Elevation Zero stories.

Sea-Level Rise To Be Discussed At Symposium

WLRN 91.3 FM

Published July 25, 2014 at 1:57 AM EDT

The impact of sea-level rise on South Florida will be the topic of discussion at the Second Annual Sea Level Rise Symposium Friday.

Experts say Florida is ground zero for sea level rise, and the Southeast Florida region will be the most impacted.

Tara Bardi, senior scientist with the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades, says even with increased media coverage on sea-level rise, most people aren’t sure how it will impact them personally.

"There will be a lot of impact to infrastructure. There will be a lot of impact to the insurance and real estate industry," she says.

Bardi also says rising seas would adversely affect the Everglades, the primary source of drinking water and freshwater for the South Florida region.

The Second Annual Sea Level Rise Symposium will feature various discussions around the issue including health effects, management strategies and community action.

The symposium will take place from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday at the Oxbridge Academy, 3151 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach.