Maine’s lighthouses have been added to the World Monuments Watch’s 2025 list of endangered heritage sites due to climate change and neglect. The list includes 25 sites globally, highlighting the threats faced by these historic beacons. With rising sea levels and storm surges impacting their stability, preservation efforts are crucial for their continuation.
Maine’s lighthouses have been included in the World Monuments Watch’s annual list of endangered heritage sites, highlighting their plight against challenges such as climate change and neglect. This list for 2025 features 25 sites including various historical locations threatened by factors like natural disasters and armed conflicts. Among these, Maine’s lighthouses, originally established between 1791 and 1910, continue to function as navigational aids despite ownership changes to governmental or nonprofit entities.
The historic lighthouses of Maine, which number 66 in total, play an integral role in the coastal economy by drawing tourism through their transformation into residences, museums, and parks. The Gulf of Maine, known for warming at triple the global rate, poses significant threats to these landmarks. They are especially susceptible to rising sea levels and increased storm surges, thus necessitating immediate attention and preservation efforts to secure their future.
In summary, the designation of Maine’s lighthouses as endangered heritage sites underscores the urgent need to address the environmental challenges posed by climate change. As part of the World Monuments Watch’s 2025 list, these historic structures represent not only the maritime heritage of Maine but also reflect a broader global concern over vulnerable cultural landmarks. Active preservation measures are essential to protect these icons for future generations.
Original Source: www.centralmaine.com
