The 4th Annual Nantucket Climate Change Summit was presented by the Linda Loring Nature Foundation and the Nantucket Conservation Foundation (September 9, 2026). This Summit explores hyper-local impacts of climate change seen on Nantucket Island, as well as exploring broader connections of climate change and impacts seen throughout communities via the work of the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI). GMRI’s talk titled: Place-based Coastal Resilience: Integrating Scientific Data with Local Knowledge was presented by: Dr. Hannah Baranes (Coastal Dynamics Lab), Gayle Bowness (Director, Community Climate Action Team), and Steph Sun (Program Manager, Community Climate Action Team)

PRESENTATION ABSTRACT Coastal communities throughout the Gulf of Maine face existential threats—as well as emergent opportunities—as a result of climate change. They also possess unique strengths that position them to respond to these impacts. Grounded in a science-based, community-driven ethos, the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) ensures adaptation strategies are based on a robust understanding of ongoing and future climate impacts to ecosystems, economies, and social structures—and are informed by community values, priorities, and challenges. We ensure decision-makers are equipped with the knowledge, resources, and relationships needed to continue thriving in a rapidly changing world. This presentation highlights GMRI’s approach to building place-based coastal resilience by integrating world-class science with deep local knowledge through case studies throughout the region. For example: • We combine local knowledge with emerging tide gauge technology and community science experiences to develop flood forecasting capabilities; • We integrate shellfish harvester knowledge with cutting-edge research techniques to assess climate impacts to tidal flats; and • We collaborate across diverse coastal communities to develop customized planning pathways resulting in climate-smart working waterfronts. The talk concludes with an exploration of emergent science and an expansion of community-driven resilience planning and action.