Del Norte County is located at the northwest corner of California and has 37 miles of coastline, beautiful mountains, and forests filled with giant Coast Redwoods. The area has steep coastal cliffs that the highway system vulnerable to slope movement and other erosion hazards.

Del Norte County

Key Issues in the Area

By 2100, sea levels in Del Norte County are project to rise around 25 inches (0.63 meters). Currently, the county is experiencing ongoing roadway hazards that have resulted from severe weather patterns.

Sea level rise adds to tides and storm surges which make flooding more common.
Rainwater that is unable to drain during coastal storm events adds to flood risk.
Coastal erosion causes cliff instability.
Last Chance Grade website

Current Planning Activities

State, regional, and local agencies are working together to evaluate and address current infrastructure issues caused by SLR, as well as plan for long-term solutions.

For a complete list of Caltrans District 1 activities, currently underway or planned, click the link below.

Learn More

Last Chance Grade

Three-mile segment of U.S. Highway 101 in Del Norte County, extending from Wilson Creek to nine miles south of Crescent City. Planning is ongoing to come up with a long-term solution to ensure reliable transportation on U.S. Highway 101.

Link: Last Chance Grade website

Yurok Tribe Climate Change Adaptation Plan

One of the only tribal adaptation plans in the United States. Aims to identify strategies that will allow Yurok lifeways, culture, and health to grow despite the changing climate.

Document: Yurok Tribe Climate Change Adaptation Plan for Water & Aquatic Resources

Del Norte County Resources

County Resources:

Sea Level Rise and Coastal Flood Risk: Summary for Del Norte County, CA

Surging Seas Risk Finder