National climate change strategy in the works

From the Arctic to the Everglades, impacts like rising sea levels, warmer temperatures, loss of sea ice, and changing precipitation patterns are affecting the species Americans care about, the services they value, and the places they call home.

In addition to ensuring the sustainability of these resources, along with their many ecological, economic, and recreational benefits, there's  an obligation to safeguard our nation’s natural heritage in a changing world.

In an unprecedented collaborative effort, federal, state, and tribal partners with input from many other diverse groups from across the nation are working together to develop a common strategy to respond to these challenges. The National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy (NWFP Climate Adaptation Strategy) will provide a unified approach—reflecting shared principles and science-based practices—for reducing the negative impacts of climate change on fish, wildlife, plants, and the natural systems upon which they depend.

In this interview, WTIP volunteer Sue Maijala talks with Roger Griffis about the NFWP Climate Change Adaptation Strategy.  Griffis is Climate Change Coordinator with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Service, and he's co-chairing the effort. 

A public comment period on what should be included in the draft strategy is open now through July 1st. To find out more or to submit comments, go to wildlife adaptation strategy dot gov .