james estrich is the mayor of tangier his family here for generation. it gradually sing under the waves. >> if we get a severe nor'easter, make a mark where the shoreline is. after the storm, the mark is well offshore. >> happening that fast. >> since 1850 the island has lost 66% of its land. in about 100 years, it is all expected to be underwater. researchers say one cause is rising sea level due to climate change. but tangier's immediate problem is wave induced erosion. washed away by the waves. and will eventually disappear. >> we hope from the erosion. >> help looks look this. a rock wall. it will cost an estimated $20 million to $30 million which they don't have. >> do you think if the president told congress i want to save tangier island it would be saved. >> i do, do indeed. >> reporter: 87% of the resident's voted for mr. trump in part because of his pledge to cut federal regulations. in june the president took notice of the island's support and gave the mayor a call. >> we had been discussing sea level rise. he said tangier has been here for hu