Virginia Senate appoints Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Jay Ford to flooding committee

The Virginia Senate has announced the appointment of Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Virginia Policy Manager Jay Ford to the legislative committee dedicated to addressing recurrent flooding across the Commonwealth.

The Joint Subcommittee on Recurrent Flooding, comprised of members of the Virginia Senate, House of Delegates, and citizen representatives, will focus on developing comprehensive legislative solutions to aid communities in persistent problems related to Virginia’s most costly natural hazard: flooding.

The committee is charged with developing and recommending short- and long-term strategies to address the growing challenges posed by flooding. Their work will directly impact the resilience and sustainability of communities throughout the state.

Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says that Virginia has warmed by more than 1.5°F since the early 20th century. Their projections predict further warming is likely, particularly under scenarios with continued high greenhouse gas emissions. They also say the shifts in climate have driven an increase in extreme weather events, including more frequent and intense downpours.

Recent estimates show that 250,000 acres of land, 1,469 miles of roads, and property valued at $17.4 billion lie less than five feet above the high-tide line in Virginia.

Jay Ford, Virginia Policy Manager for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Managing Partner with the Old Dominion University (ODU) Institute for Coastal Adaptation and Resilience and CBF partnership, brings an extensive background in natural resource policy and resilience planning to the committee.

Ford released the following statement:

“I am deeply honored to join this vital committee and contribute to the development of solutions that will help Virginia communities navigate the increasing challenges of rising waters and intensified rainfall.

“The impacts of climate change are undeniable on our communities, coastlines, and economy. It is imperative that we work collaboratively to ensure our communities are prepared and resilient for the future.

“The committee’s efforts will help safeguard Virginia’s communities and natural resources for the next generation by emphasizing proactive, science-based approaches to mitigate flood risks and enhance community preparedness.”