Think coast, think value. Our coasts are not just wondrous stretches of sand or marsh; they are priceless resources that provide value in terms of fisheries, recreational opportunities, real estate, energy supplies, and a portal for tourism and international trade. Our barrier islands and coastal wetlands also provide a critical buffer from storms and sea level rise.

Like it or not, our lives are inherently connected to the coast, for both good and bad. We reap the benefits of our waterways, the shore and ocean, but we can also cause harm to their health and value. Pollution runs down our streams, flows off the land following rains, and passes through our Chesapeake Bay watershed to the coast. Development alters the flow of water and sediment, damages our wetlands and leaves the coast more vulnerable to hurricanes and the rise of the sea. Climate change, overuse of fertilizers, invasive species and overfishing are also putting our valuable coastal resources at risk. And as we know all too well, when hurricanes barrel toward shore, we are at great risk. It is time to recognize their value, our connection to them, and what must be done to save our coasts.

NBC4 and I are working to become your source for the best information on not just the weather, but also about our coast, watersheds and the environment as they all affect your everyday life. This is all part of our Coastal Connection. Thanks to a partnership with NOAA's Coastal Service Center in Charleston, SC and StormCenter Communications look to this website for more information, weekly stories, new and exciting graphics, and watch NBC4 and me, Bob Ryan, for breaking weather and environment stories.