Channel 3 Eyewitness News interviewing local residents and UConn’s Joel Stocker (updated 9/2025)
The Connecticut shoreline is eroding at rates not seen in our lifetime, and the devastation was sped up by powerful storms like Irene and Sandy. In some spots, five years of erosion was accomplished in just three months, and for the first time, Channel 3 Eyewitness News is showing you the dramatic transformation up close. Beach season is now upon us and the rebuilding process is going strong in Old Lyme. Many beachfront homes got walloped from Irene and then a year later by Sandy.
“Changes are going on, especially along the Connecticut shore,” said beachfront homeowner Catherine Roth.
It’s a statement we’ve heard before and probably sensed. But not many know exactly how much land these storms stole from our state. “There are some areas in Connecticut where it’s been up to 400 to 500 feet. Some areas 600 feet,” said University of Connecticut researcher Joel Stocker.
Adapt CT
Connecticut Sea Grant and UConn CLEAR work to provide information, tools, trainings and workshop opportunities to assist municipalities, businesses and residents of Connecticut in their efforts to prepare for and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. Drawing on expertise from faculty within multiple departments at UConn and other universities, municipal officials, consultants, and lawyers, we strive to share the most recent information and research that communities need to make decisions on how to best adapt to the climate change impacts facing Connecticut.
On Adapt CT, you will find information on
- The Climate Adaptation Academy offers workshops, trainings, tools and presentations on current issues in climate adaptation.
- The UConn Climate Corps is a program for undergraduate students emphasizing current issues in climate adaptation, particularly within Connecticut, and the opportunity to work with municipalities and other groups on adaptation projects.
- The Habitats section provides information and resources related to the restoration and management of coastal habitats in Connecticut as well as a management plan outline for open space activities.
- Tools and Assistance offers a wide range of climate related resources for municipal officials and commission members, residents and learners of all ages.