What is phased retreat?
Managed retreat means moving buildings, roads, and other public resources away from places that are at high risk from climate hazards, like rising sea levels and erosion. It can also include changing how areas are used for recreation and helping nature recover by restoring habitats.
Managed retreat can happen in phases, or step by step over time. This is called phased retreat.
For DCR, phased retreat is a chance to take action early and rethink how a place is used, instead of leaving it unmanaged.
Because phased retreat is flexible and can change over time, it helps planners make smart decisions as conditions change. This makes it a useful tool for DCR to prepare for and respond to climate change.
Why are we doing this study?
This study will be the first of its kind for DCR. It will allow the agency to explore this type of restoration and adaptation strategy, inform retreat options for similar coastal sites within the DCR State Parks System, and support efforts to accomplish the agency’s climate adaptation goals.
Study Updates
Public Outreach Meeting
The DCR Team has been busy learning about Demarest Lloyd State Park. We have been documenting existing conditions at the park, doing archaeological studies to explore its past and rich cultural history, looking at climate models to see what changes might be coming, and talking with park visitors to find out what they like the most. Now, we want to share what we learned with you!
On Wednesday, April 29DCR hosted a Zoom Public Meeting to share our findings and present our draft phased retreat concepts. Access the meeting recordings and slides by visiting the event page.
DCR is looking for ways to adapt to changing conditions while protecting the park’s natural areas and recreation opportunities. As we plan for the future, we want to hear from you. Visit the DCR public comment page to provide public comment. Your feedback will help us decide how to take care of trails, parking, roads, and other parts of the park so everyone can enjoy them for years to come. Comments are being accepted through May 13, 2026.