Mission & Vision

The mission of the New Hampshire Coastal Adaptation Workgroup (CAW) is to assist communities in NH’s coastal watershed to prepare for the impacts of extreme weather and long-term climate change by providing resources, facilitation, and guidance that enhance readiness and resilience. Through this work, CAW envisions a resilient coastal watershed where all human communities and natural ecosystems can adapt, thrive, and reach their full potential in a changing climate. 

The New Hampshire coastal watershed is a vibrant region for all who live, work, and recreate. In this region, 42 communities are home to 22% of the state’s population, several popular beaches, and an economy that supports 30% of New Hampshire’s workforce. The New Hampshire coastal watershed also includes the nationally recognized Great Bay and Hampton-Seabrook Estuaries. 

This region already experiences significant coastal hazards. Groundwater rise, sea level rise, coastal storms, coastal erosion, extreme precipitation, and freshwater flooding are expected to increase in frequency and severity in the years ahead. These hazards and the risks they pose are interconnected with experiences and root causes of social vulnerability.  

Fortunately, communities are taking steps to understand present and future risks with regional support and coordination. CAW has played a key role in nurturing collective action and building relationships in the region since its formation in 2009. Today, CAW is an award-winning collaborative of more than 35 organizations. CAW and its members provide consistent and coordinated capacity to communities that are small, governed mostly by volunteers, and facing compounding challenges.