The new DNREC Secretary speaks with local Sussex County leaders Tuesday

LEWES, Del. — In January, Gov. Matt Meyer appointed Gregory Patterson as the new secretary of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

On Tuesday, Patterson met with Sussex County leaders to discuss his priorities.

“I’m going to talk about some efforts that DNREC has underway regarding climate change,” he said.

The Rehoboth and Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce hosted the event. Chamber President Carol Everhart said informing the community is a goal for every event.

“It’s good for us to have different speakers every month that have different perspectives for the community,” she said. “The secretary is new, and we are interested in what he’s going to say and his plans for the future.”

Climate change has posed challenges for Delaware in recent years. According to Patterson, the First State faces unique issues because of its low-lying surface. He said the state’s highest elevation point is only 60 feet above sea level.

“We need to work together to protect our coastal communities from climate change — the impacts of rising sea levels and increased flooding are affecting these towns,” he said.

Patterson emphasized the importance of federal funding for climate initiatives. DNREC will continue its Indian River Inlet and beach nourishment projects.

“It provides very important protection for Route 1 and the bridge, and that is a critical link between the southern part of the coast and the northern part,” he said.