Abstract
Human-caused climate change is accelerating sea-level rise in New Jersey and driving increases in coastal flood hazards. In 2016, Rutgers University researchers convened a panel of scientists to assess projections of future sea level and storm changes affecting the Garden State. To ensure the usability of their assessment, the scientists also consulted with state and local practitioners to discuss how they would integrate the science into their decisions to enhance the coastal resilience of New Jersey’s people, places, and assets. In 2019, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection engaged Rutgers to conduct new consultations with panels of scientists and practitioners to update its 2016 work to reflect the most recent climate science. Key updates in the 2019 report include: the addition of historical sea level rise information for New Jersey; consideration of the latest information related to potential ice-sheet changes and their effect on sea level rise; and assessment of increasing tidal flooding under sea-level rise. This document provides “Frequently Asked Questions” and answers regarding these reports.