The Impacts of Climate Change on Coastal Georgia Heritage Tourism Sites

Keywords: Climate Change, Historic Sites, Tourism, Georgia
Session Type: Virtual Poster Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 03:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 05:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 49

Abstract

Heritage tourism sites on the coast of Georgia not only showcase rich culture and history but also provide a considerable economic impact to the region. Climate change and sea-level rise as well as the resultant extreme weather events like hurricanes, will be detrimental to coastal Georgia, particularly historic sites near the coast. This could not only result in a loss of rich history but possibly negatively impact the state’s tourism industry. The study will investigate how historic sites Fort King George, Wormsloe State Historic Site, and Fort Pulaski National Monument near Savannah, GA are navigating the effects of climate change and their methods for preservation. This study will then explore from the perspective of management and staff, how these extreme weather events impact their historic sites. Finally, this study will explore from the perspectives of management and staff how their sites of employment are preparing for the future if at all. I utilized archival research to understand the impacts of recent hurricanes, sea-level rise, and any extreme weather effects with a tie to climate change within the region of Savannah, Georgia. I gave the management teams the option for a Zoom Interview or a Google Survey for a semi-structured interview. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all contact has been over Zoom, email, or phone call. Survey data and interviews have been analyzed using descriptive statistical and content analysis.