The Town of Rockport’s Harbor Strategic Task Force is hosting a public meeting at 5 p.m., April 1, at the Rockport Opera House, and the public is encouraged to attend.

The Task Force was created to address the long-term future of Rockport Harbor’s working waterfront and public access areas in the face of ongoing sea level rise, which is anticipated to accelerate in the coming decades, according to a news release from the town office.

The Task Force consists of 10 Rockport residents with a wide variety of backgrounds and interests. Members include fishermen, as well as members of the Rockport Boat Club, Parks Committee, Harbor Committee, and Conservation Commission. Expertise includes  Island Institute involvement, as experience in the marine contracting industry, filmmaking and the world of physics.

Though Rockport was spared during this past winter, the January 2024 (and previous) storms caused considerable damage that required expensive repairs.

At the recommendation of the Task Force, the Town of Rockport has retained the Saco-based landscape architects Richardson and Associates (and its partner, the Portland office of the global engineering firm WSP) to develop recommendations on resilience options to address sea level rise, as well as consider and protect both the current and future uses of the harbor.

"For example, Rockport’s working waterfront is a jewel that needs protection, as is public access in the form of the boat launch and the amenities that Marine Park provides the town’s residents," the release said.

Rockport residents are encouraged to attend the April 1 meeting, where there will be brief presentation, as well as the opportunity to ask questions and, importantly, to provide input to the Task Force and the Richardson team.

"The future of Rockport’s harbor is in our hands, so please come and share your thoughts and opinions with us," the release said.

If you are not able to attend but want to learn more and follow along, visit the project page.