Smith Island locals fight to save their home amid climate crisis

Smith Island, located in the Chesapeake Bay, has faced significant threats due to climate change, particularly erosion and rising sea levels. The island was first chartered by Captain John Smith in 1608, indicating its longstanding history. The population of Smith Island has been declining, with many residents moving away as conditions worsen. Watermen, once the backbone of the community, have seen drastic changes over the past 75 years. Currently, projections indicate that Maryland could experience a sea-level rise of one to two feet by 2050 and more than four feet by 2100. Despite these grim forecasts, the remaining residents express a deep commitment to their home, framing their determination as a manifestation of faith and resilience amid such challenges. Conversations among locals reveal a nostalgic appreciation for their community, yet they acknowledge the severe implications of environmental changes, emphasizing that many have already accepted this as an ongoing aspect of life on the island.