Maine lighthouses like Marshall Point had to “pick up the pieces” after the destructive January 2024 storms.
(Photo by Diane Heath)
The two January 2024 winter storms that wreaked havoc along the coastal regions of Maine and New Hampshire have left an inexpungible mark. Nowhere is this more evident than at historic lighthouse sites.
Yes, the storms themselves are now relegated to the annals of history, and by and large, communities have picked up the pieces and moved forward. However, much of the harm caused by the storms continues to endure in one form or another. Worse yet, the unchecked circumstances that help contribute to the widespread peril, still looms large on future horizons.
If it feels like we are having to start over when it comes to a serious conversation centered on the need to make lighthouses more resilient, it’s because as a collective, we have not been sufficiently moved to action. This, despite many knowing extreme weather is no stranger to these vulnerable sites and that the frequency and intensity of storms is growing more problematic as time passes.
Yet many feel helpless in the face of such a daunting challenge as that of our changing climate. In fact, when extensive storm damage occurs at lighthouses, it not only is quite discouraging, it can also stop us completely in our tracks, mentally and emotionally. Lighthouse stewards are often left feeling as if hope is adrift and solutions are elusive. Understandably so.
Lighthouse stewards are working to make historic structures more resilient in the face of severe storms. Shown here is Rockland Breakwater Light.
(Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)
Once the initial shock fades, we often seek top-down assistance to address these urgent situations. Options such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Small Business Administration and state emergency management resources are pursued. And while this recourse is vital to the disaster recovery process, we tend to place less emphasis on our own ability as lighthouse stewards to have a positive impact.
For as beneficial as governmental options are to repairing storm-damaged light stations and identifying/implanting hazard mitigation measures, we should simultaneously undertake additional helpful actions to further protect lighthouses.
What actions can we tackle?
Storm shutters are an affordable way to help protect lighthouses. Shown here is Egg Rock Light.
(Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)
The American Lighthouse Foundation’s Storm & Mitigation Response Team is presently creating a list of best practices designed to be handily implementable with only a modest investment. For instance, storm shutters, removable elements and sacrificial materials can go a long way to limit the extent and cost of future storm damage.
As lighthouse stewards, we need not feel totally defenseless in the face of severe weather and rising sea levels. No, we will not be able to address every concern right off, nor easily overcome some of the larger challenges involved with hazard mitigation. The answer to many of these issues will take quite a bit of planning, design and funds. For sure, this is a journey to a more resilient future for lighthouses.
Volunteers have helped clean-up storm damage, but they can also make a big difference in protecting lighthouses too. Wood Island boathouse.
(Photo by Kyle Noble)
However, if we are convicted to act – to do all we can in the present, we will surprise our communities and ourselves with just how effective a can-do spirit is. No matter how small or insignificant a remedy may appear, do it (after consultation with the State Historic Preservation Office, of course)! Our lighthouses will benefit, and so too will society.
How?
By demonstrating incremental progress through a commitment to action, our passion in motion will build momentum toward shining achievement. This will inspire confidence in others, while instilling pride in our communities along the way. So push forward unabashed on actions big and small. Be a guiding light that helps lead the way to a more promising and resilient future for lighthouses!
By demonstrating incremental progress through a commitment to action, our passion in motion will build momentum toward shining achievement. This will inspire confidence in others, while instilling pride in our communities along the way. So push forward unabashed on actions big and small! Shown here is Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse in New Castle, NH. The storm-damaged base of the tower was repaired in January 2025. (Photo by Bob Trapani, Jr.)
