Sea level rise: how does it affect shorebirds in the Punta Banda Estuary?

Laura Ibarra, doctoral student at the Institute of Oceanological Research at the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC) and Punta Banda Conservation Alliance Steering Committee member, is leading this project for her doctoral dissertation to get her PhD. The topic of her research is: Climate Adaptation Strategies for the Protection of Critical Habitats for Shorebirds in the Punta Banda Estuary.

This project is addressing one of the most pressing challenges posed by climate change: rising sea levels and their impact on coastal habitats essential for shorebirds and human communities. The project is focused on the Estero de Punta Banda, a site of regional importance within the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, where we seek to strengthen and enhance ecological and community resilience.

In addition to researching effects of climate change on local shorebird populations, Laura’s dissertation will address effects of climate change on the human community, collectively exploring ideas for dealing with climate change effects such as sea level rise in the future. To accomplish this, she will lead two workshops at Campo La Jolla Salon, courtesy of Sociedad de Amigos.

The purpose of Workshop #1 (November 15: click on date for more information) will be for community members to share stories, experiences, and observations about the estuary, how it has changed over time, and what it means in their daily lives. Workshop #1 will focus on community knowledge of the past and present. It will also include a presentation on projected climate change effects in the estuary for the future.

The purpose of Workshop #2 (December 6: click on date for more information) will be to collectively envision the future, exploring ideas for its 0care, resilience and conservation through community perspectives. Workshop #2 will focus on the question, “what can we do to build climate change resilience in our area?”

The workshops will mainly be in Spanish, but will be able to fully accommodate English speakers. English speakers are very welcome. Each workshop will be held at Salón Pabloff, Campo La Joya, Ejido Esteban Cantú at 10am. Community members are encouraged to attend both workshops, but are welcome to attend only one workshop if unable to attend both. Special thanks to Sociedad de Amigos for hosting this event!!

By integrating science, community engagement, and effective habitat management, this project aims to establish a replicable model for climate adaptation in coastal areas. In doing so, we will not only safeguard shorebirds and their ecosystems but also enhance the security and sustainability of coastal communities facing a changing environmental future.

For more information or if you are interested in participating, contact Laura Ibarra at ibarra.laura@uabc.edu.mx