Last Stand’s annual meeting will feature a lively forum about sustainability and climate initiatives for the Lower Keys, emphasizing impacts of sea-level rise.

The event is slated for Friday, January 30th, 6:30 pm, at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, at the foot of Southard Street in Key West. Last Stand members are encouraged to attend, and the public is invited.

Attendees will learn which Lower Keys areas will be affected by sea-level rise and about natural coastal defenses to help mitigate shoreline erosion. Also, strategies used in other countries to prepare for sea-level rise will be presented, illustrating options for local adaptation actions.

The forum’s team of experts on various aspects of sea-level rise includes: Jason M. Evans, PhD, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at Stetson University; Erin L. Deady, attorney, lecturer and author; Chris Bergh, South Florida Conservation Director for The Nature Conservancy; and Rhonda Haag, Monroe County’s Sustainability Director.

Check-in begins at 6:15 pm, with a short business meeting starting promptly at 6:30. Mark Rosch, of the Monroe County Land Authority, will be recognized as Outstanding Public Official of 2014 for his exemplary role in acquiring and protecting lands for public use and conservation. Last Stand members will elect three directors and hear about 2014 activities.

The forum discussion of sustainability and climate initiatives for the Lower Keys will begin about 7:00 and will be followed by question & answer session. At the conclusion of the forum, all are invited to adjourn to an informal social setting, with refreshments being served.

Since 1987 Last Stand has been working steadily to protect our fragile environment and the quality of life for all Keys residents. Changes caused by climate, including impacts of sea-level rise, are a concern for everyone and we are pleased to offer our community the opportunity to learn about these important issues.