Continuing sea-level rise is projected to permanently flood areas where elevation is close to the sea level, compounding the effects of storm surge, flooding, and salt spray.

Rising sea levels, combined with storm surge and erosion may drive the coastal zone inland, resulting in rapid changes in tree species’ habitat. Saltwater intrusion can kill Atlantic white-cedar forests and may damage other species depending on the intensity and duration. Increased flooding can increase runoff and discharge from farm land and concentrated animal feed lots, thus increasing nutrient loads.