Meyer asks Trump for help to end beach erosion

Gov. Matt Meyer is asking for federal assistance to restore Delaware’s beaches following an Oct. 14 nor’easter and other storms that have eroded the shoreline.

“The duration and force of these storms have caused damage equal to, and in some cases worse than, a hurricane. Coastal breaches and dune failures pose direct risks to public safety, emergency response operations and economic stability. High winds, elevated tides and sustained wave action have eroded public beaches, weakened storm protection systems and jeopardized transportation infrastructure such as the Indian River bridge,” Meyer wrote in an Oct. 21 letter sent to President Trump.

Beach tourism brings billions of dollars to the state, and supports local business and jobs, he said. Delaware’s agricultural sector also relies on stable coastal corridors for poultry production and to transport other goods, he said.

“Coastal breaches also disrupt travel, damage infrastructure and increase saltwater intrusion risks onto fertile forests and farmland,” he wrote.

To protect Delaware’s coast, Meyer asked for immediate emergency restoration for the beaches by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

“Delaware stands ready to collaborate with the USACE at every step. Swift federal action is needed before additional storms cause preventable damage. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued commitment to coastal resilience and public safety. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you or your team to ensure rapid coordination and deployment of federal assistance,” Meyer wrote.