Support for the development of an erosion control and adaptation strategy for the Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon archipelago

The coasts of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon are subject to significant erosion and submersion risks. Faced with the intensification of these phenomena, it is becoming necessary for this territory to adopt a strategy adapted to the risks. Over the past 20 years, knowledge of coastal risks has greatly improved in Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, but a shared action strategy still needs to be established between all the players involved in these issues.
The GO facility therefore proposes to identify technical solutions that could be implemented, by improving knowledge of the field: the territory of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon is submitted to significant erosion risks, which threaten its coasts, and in a context of climate change, meteorological phenomena are evolving rapidly, and are characterized by the combined effects of high swell and strong winds, which increase pressure on the coasts. The territory is also characterized by relatively low-lying coasts and islands: they are therefore threatened by submersion, in addition to the risk of erosion.
The isthmus of Miquelon-Langlade site, a remarkable natural site for its rich biodiversity and saltwater lagoon, is also an essential area for local life, since it is through it that the village of Miquelon is linked to Langlade. The Miquelon-Langlade Isthmus was severely impacted by severe erosive episodes in the 2000s, and to mitigate this, riprap work was carried out to secure the shoreline. This work has been accompanied by a gradual increase in awareness that has improved scientific knowledge of the site, and the facility aims to equip the territory and its stakeholders with a strategy for combating and adapting to coastal risks and erosion, a strategy that will provide a roadmap towards climate resilience for Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.
The work carried out within the framework of this facility will enable us to take stock of the various actions already implemented, and those yet to be deployed. The aim is to draw up a collaborative action plan identifying the specific measures to be taken to combat the risks facing the coastline of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon; to interpret data and measurements in the field to aid decision-making; to encourage collaboration and experience-sharing between decision-makers and technicians; and to raise public awareness of the issues associated with climate change and coastal erosion.