The American Coastal Coalition (ACC) is proud to announce the launch of #YEStoBeaches, a coordinated national advocacy campaign mobilizing member organizations from coast to coast to demonstrate broad public support for federal beach nourishment funding. The campaign launches Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 23rd, with a synchronized nationwide social media push.
With Congress in recess and families heading to the beach, summer is the ideal time to generate visible, widespread public support for America’s coastal communities.
Background
Decades of erosion, rising seas, disrupted sediment flow, and increasingly severe storms are steadily washing away America’s shorelines. Scientists warn that nearly half of the world’s sandy beaches could disappear by 2100 if action is not taken.
America’s coastal communities generate more than $10 trillion annually in goods and services (NOAA), and beaches serve as the first line of defense from hurricanes, flooding, and storm damage. These natural systems are not just beautiful landscapes—they are critical national infrastructure. When the sand disappears, homes, roads, businesses, wildlife habitat, and public safety are all put at greater risk.
The good news is that solutions exist.
Beach nourishment and coastal restoration projects are proven, effective investments that protect communities, strengthen local economies, preserve wildlife habitat, and reduce long-term disaster costs. Communities across the country are already working to implement these projects but they can't do it alone.
Why This Campaign?
Most Members of Congress don't hear from their constituents about beach funding. That silence is read as indifference, which leads to project cuts when budgets get tight. But Congress listens when constituents show up.
Your voice makes a difference. You don't need to be an expert. You don't need to know the legislation by name. You just need to say: I care about this, and I'm paying attention.
“Beaches are one of the most broadly loved assets in America and contribute billions to our national economy while also avoiding billions in disaster costs. Beaches are smart fiscal policy. Let’s make sure Congress knows it.”
— Dan Ginolfi, Executive Director, American Coastal Coalition