2018 NCA Resources for Northwest Region

Contributors

Regional Chapter Editor:

Lee Frankel-Goldwater, PhD Candidate, University of Colorado, Boulder

Chapter Reviewers, 2018:

Deb Morrison, University of Washington, Abby Ruskey, The Athena Group, Frank Granshaw, Portland State University, Jacqueline Laverdure, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, Lisa Hiruki-Raring, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Jennifer Pierce, Boise State University

NCA Education Resources for the Northwest Region

The National Climate Assessment (NCA) summarizes the impacts of climate change on the United States, now and in the future. This report collects, integrates, and assesses observations and research from around the country, helping us to see what is actually happening and understand what it means for our lives, our livelihoods, and our future. It is important that these findings and response options be shared broadly to inform people and communities across our nation. Climate change presents a major challenge for society. This report advances our understanding of that challenge and the need for the American people to prepare for and respond to its far-reaching implications.

It contains information that will help educators and students gain a deeper understanding of climate science through the Our Changing Climate section of the 2018 NCA report and 2017 supporting Climate Science Special Report (CSSR). Engineering is addressed throughout, both from the standpoint of climate change impacts and solutions, however, the Mitigation and Adaptation sections contain the most relevant information.

Finally, the Frequently Asked Questions section has useful information as it relates to an Introduction to Climate Change, Climate Science, Temperature and Climate Projections, Climate, Weather, and Extreme Events, Societal Effects, and Ecological Effects.

Chapter Background

Residents of the Northwest list the inherent qualities of the natural environment among the top reasons to live in the region. The Northwest is known for clean air, abundant water, low-cost hydroelectric power, vast forests, extensive farmlands, and an array of outdoor recreation that includes hiking, boating, fishing, hunting, and skiing. Warming and related changes in climate are already affecting aspects of the Northwest's identity such as its natural resource economy and its cultural heritage that is deeply embedded within the natural environment. The built systems that support Northwest residents and the health of residents themselves are also already experiencing the effects of climate change. The communities on the front lines of climate change experience the first, and often the worst, effects. Frontline communities in the Northwest include tribes and Indigenous peoples, the economically disadvantaged, and those most dependent on natural resources for their livelihoods.

The region has warmed substantially—nearly 2°F since 1900—and this warming is partially attributable to human-caused emissions of greenhouse gases. Warmer winters have led to reductions in the mountain snowpack that historically blanketed the region's mountains, increasing wildfire risk and speeding the usually slow release of water for communities, agriculture, rivers, and soils. In 2015, record winter warmth led to record-low snowpack in much of the Northwest's mountains as winter precipitation fell as rain instead of snow, resulting in drought, water scarcity, and large wildfires that negatively affected farmers, hydropower, drinking water, salmon, and recreation. In addition, warmer ocean temperatures led to shifts in the marine ecosystem, challenges for salmon, and a large harmful algal bloom. The extreme climate-related events of 2015 have prompted Northwest states, cities, tribes, and others to increase and prioritize climate preparedness efforts, as evidenced by the presentations at the 6th and 7th annual Northwest Climate Conference" (Complete background and related figures available at NCA, 2018, Northwest Chapter)

Using this Guide:

The NCA Education Resources for the Northwest Region features 1) guiding questions, 2) key figures, 3) related chapters from the report, 4) lesson plans, 5) videos for all of the NCA key messages for the region, and 6) related U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit Case Studies.

Teachers can have students explore the toolkit case studies to see how people are building resilience for their businesses and in their communities in the region. This page contains information that will help educators and students gain a deeper understanding of climate science and the implications for the region.

Chapter Table of Contents with Section Links:

Key Message 1: Natural Resource Economy

Key Message 2: Natural World and Cultural Heritage

Key Message 3: Infrastructure

Key Message 4: Health

Key Message 5: Frontline Communities

Key Message 1: Natural Resource Economy

Climate change is already affecting the Northwest's diverse natural resources, which support sustainable livelihoods; provide a robust foundation for rural, tribal, and Indigenous communities; and strengthen local economies. Climate change is expected to continue affecting the natural resource sector, but the economic consequences will depend on future market dynamics, management actions, and adaptation efforts. Proactive management can increase the resilience of many natural resources and their associated economies.

Sub-categories under this key message:

Linkage Between Observed Climate and Regional Risks
Future Climate Change Relevant to Regional Risks
Challenges, Opportunities, and Success Stories for Reducing Risk
Emerging Issues

1. Guiding Questions

×

Natural resources are a key part of the Northwest economy. Climate change is putting natural resource sector jobs and sales revenues at risk. Jobs and sales figures include the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors only, and are presented based on 2015 data for Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
Provenance: Figure 24.3 from the Fourth National Climate Assessment Chapter 24: NORTHWEST
Reuse: This item is offered under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/ You may reuse this item for non-commercial purposes as long as you provide attribution and offer any derivative works under a similar license.

How might climate change impact access to and the availability of natural resources?
What are some of the impacts of climate change on the well-being of rural, tribal, and indigenous communities? Can you give some examples?
What measures can be undertaken to help communities and natural resource economies adapt to climate change impacts?

2. Key Figures -

Figure 24.3: Natural Resource Industry Jobs and Sales Revenues

Natural resources are a key part of the Northwest economy. Climate change is putting natural resource sector jobs and sales revenues at risk. Jobs and sales figures include the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors only, and are presented based on 2015 data for Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

Box 24.1: Adaptive Agricultural Approaches in Practice

Farmers and ranchers across the Northwest are creating resilient agro-ecosystems to reduce weather- and climate-related risks while meeting economic, conservation, and adaptation goals. Below are a few examples of these efforts from the region.

3. Related Chapters from the NCA 2018 Report

(Listed the order they appear under this key message in the Report)

Ch. 10: Agriculture & Rural Communities - Key Message 4 - Vulnerability and Adaptive Capacity of Rural Communities

Residents in rural communities often have limited capacity to respond to climate change impacts, due to poverty and limitations in community resources. Communication, transportation, water, and sanitary infrastructure are vulnerable to disruption from climate stressors. Achieving social resilience to these challenges would require increases in local capacity to make adaptive improvements in shared community resources.

Ch. 15: Tribes and Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous peoples in the United States are diverse and distinct political and cultural groups and populations. Though they may be affected by climate change in ways that are similar to others in the United States, Indigenous peoples can also be affected uniquely and disproportionately. Many Indigenous peoples have lived in particular areas for hundreds if not thousands of years. Indigenous peoples' histories and shared experience engender distinct knowledge about climate change impacts and strategies for adaptation. Indigenous peoples' traditional knowledge systems can play a role in advancing understanding of climate change and in developing more comprehensive climate adaptation strategies.

Ch. 10: Agriculture & Rural Communities - Key Message 2 - Degradation of Soil and Water Resources

The degradation of critical soil and water resources will expand as extreme precipitation events increase across our agricultural landscape. Sustainable crop production is threatened by excessive runoff, leaching, and flooding, which results in soil erosion, degraded water quality in lakes and streams, and damage to rural community infrastructure. Management practices to restore soil structure and the hydrologic function of landscapes are essential for improving resilience to these challenges.

Ch. 3: Water - Key Message 3 - Water Management in a Changing Future

Water management strategies designed in view of an evolving future we can only partially anticipate will help prepare the Nation for water- and climate-related risks of the future. Current water management and planning principles typically do not address risk that changes over time, leaving society exposed to more risk than anticipated. While there are examples of promising approaches to manage climate risk, the gap between research and implementation, especially in view of regulatory and institutional constraints, remains a challenge.

Ch. 9: Oceans and Marine Resources

Americans rely on ocean ecosystems for food, jobs, recreation, energy, and other vital services. Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels change ocean conditions through three main factors: warming seas, ocean acidification, and deoxygenation. These factors are transforming ocean ecosystems, and these transformations are already impacting the U.S. economy and coastal communities, cultures, and businesses.

Ch. 5: Land Cover and Land-Use Change

Climate can affect and be affected by changes in land cover (the physical features that cover the land such as trees or pavement) and land use (human management and activities on land, such as mining or recreation). A forest, for instance, would likely include tree cover but could also include areas of recent tree removals currently covered by open grass areas. Land cover and use are inherently coupled: changes in land-use practices can change land cover, and land cover enables specific land uses. Understanding how land cover, use, condition, and management vary in space and time is challenging.

Ch. 6: Forests

Forests on public and private lands provide benefits to the natural environment, as well as economic benefits and ecosystem services to people in the United States and globally. The ability of U.S. forests to continue to provide goods and services is threatened by climate change and associated increases in extreme events and disturbances. For example, severe drought and insect outbreaks have killed hundreds of millions of trees across the United States over the past 20 years, and wildfires have burned at least 3.7 million acres annually in all but 3 years from 2000 to 2016. Recent insect-caused mortality appears to be outside the historical context, and is likely related to climate change; however, it is unclear if the apparent climate-related increase in fire-caused tree mortality is outside the range of what has been observed over centuries of wildfire occurrence.

Ch. 9: Oceans and Marine Resources, Key Message 2 - Marine Fisheries

Marine fisheries and fishing communities are at high risk from climate-driven changes in the distribution, timing, and productivity of fishery-related species. Ocean warming, acidification, and deoxygenation are projected to increase these changes in fishery-related species, reduce catches in some areas, and challenge effective management of marine fisheries and protected species. Fisheries management that incorporates climate knowledge can help reduce impacts, promote resilience, and increase the value of marine resources in the face of changing ocean conditions.

Ch. 5: Land Cover & Land-use Change, Key Message 2 - Climate Impacts on Land and Ecosystems

Climate change affects land use and ecosystems. Climate change is expected to directly and indirectly impact land use and cover by altering disturbance patterns, species distributions, and the suitability of land for specific uses. The composition of the natural and human landscapes, and how society uses the land, affects the ability of the Nation's ecosystems to provide essential goods and services.

Ch. 10 Agriculture & Rural Communities, Key Message 3 - Health Challenges to Rural Populations and Livestock

Challenges to human and livestock health are growing due to the increased frequency and intensity of high temperature extremes. Extreme heat conditions contribute to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and heart attacks in humans. Heat stress in livestock results in large economic losses for producers. Expanded health services in rural areas, heat-tolerant livestock, and improved design of confined animal housing are all important advances to minimize these challenges.

Ch. 6: Forests, Key Message 1 - Ecological Disturbances and Forest Health

It is very likely that more frequent extreme weather events will increase the frequency and magnitude of severe ecological disturbances, driving rapid (months to years) and often persistent changes in forest structure and function across large landscapes. It is also likely that other changes, resulting from gradual climate change and less severe disturbances, will alter forest productivity and health and the distribution and abundance of species at longer timescales (decades to centuries).

Ch. 5: Land Cover & Land-use Change

Ch. 6: Forests, Key Message 3 - Adaptation

Forest management activities that increase the resilience of U.S. forests to climate change are being implemented, with a broad range of adaptation options for different resources, including applications in planning. The future pace of adaptation will depend on how effectively social, organizational, and economic conditions support implementation.

Ch. 10: Agriculture and Rural Communities

In 2015, U.S. agricultural producers contributed $136.7 billion to the economy and accounted for 2.6 million jobs. About half of the revenue comes from livestock production. Other agriculture-related sectors in the food supply chain contributed an additional $855 billion of gross domestic product and accounted for 21 million jobs.

Ch. 3: Water, Key Message 1 - Changes in Water Quantity and Quality

Significant changes in water quantity and quality are evident across the country. These changes, which are expected to persist, present an ongoing risk to coupled human and natural systems and related ecosystem services. Variable precipitation and rising temperature are intensifying droughts, increasing heavy downpours, and reducing snowpack. Reduced snow-to-rain ratios are leading to significant differences between the timing of water supply and demand. Groundwater depletion is exacerbating drought risk. Surface water quality is declining as water temperature increases and more frequent high-intensity rainfall events mobilize pollutants such as sediments and nutrients.

Ch. 9: Oceans and Marine Resources, Key Message 1 - Ocean Ecosystems

The Nation's valuable ocean ecosystems are being disrupted by increasing global temperatures through the loss of iconic and highly valued habitats and changes in species composition and food web structure. Ecosystem disruption will intensify as ocean warming, acidification, deoxygenation, and other aspects of climate change increase. In the absence of significant reductions in carbon emissions, transformative impacts on ocean ecosystems cannot be avoided.

Ch. 16: Climate Effects on U.s. International Interests, Key Message 4 - Transboundary Resources

Shared resources along U.S. land and maritime borders provide direct benefits to Americans and are vulnerable to impacts from a changing climate, variability, and extremes. Multinational frameworks that manage shared resources are increasingly incorporating climate risk in their transboundary decision-making processes.

Ch. 11: Built Environment, Urban Systems, & Cities, Key Message 3 - Impacts on Urban Goods and Services

Interdependent networks of infrastructure, ecosystems, and social systems provide essential urban goods and services. Damage to such networks from current weather extremes and future climate will adversely affect urban life. Coordinated local, state, and federal efforts can address these interconnected vulnerabilities.

4. Lesson Plans -

Greenhouse Emissions Reduction Role-Play Exercise

In this role-play activity, students take the roles of various important players in the climate change policy negotiation including politicians, scientists, environmentalists, and industry representatives. Working in these roles, students must take a position, debate with others, and then vote on legislation designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Can be used in a variety of courses including writing and rhetoric, and social sciences. Activity takes two 2-hour class periods.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Human Responses to Climate, Energy Policy

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS3-4, HS-ETS1-1, HS-ETS1-3

Beat the Uncertainty: Planning Climate-Resilient Cities

This learning activity explores the concept of resiliency. It allows students to make city planning decisions and then employs a game to test their resilience decisions against potential impacts from severe weather, climate change, and natural hazards. This learning activity takes one to two 45 min class periods. Additional classroom materials needed: Flat-bottomed marbles; food containers.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Sea Level Rise, Climate Impacts, Adaptation Strategies, Risk Management

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.C2, HS-ESS3.C2, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-ETS1.B1

Next Generation Climate Lesson 5 - In what ways can the repercussions of climate change be minimized?

In this multi-part activity, students distinguish between adaptation and mitigation, in response to climate change, and research and discuss/debate strategies to minimize the effects of climate change. Activity length: Three 50-minute class periods

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Mitigation Strategies, Adaptation Strategies

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.C2, MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.D1

Adapting to a Changing World

In this activity, students assess individual and national opinions on climate change and explore strategies that communities are employing to adapt to aspects of climate change already affecting them in addition to those likely to affect them in the future. Activity takes about one 50-minute class period.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ETS1.A2

Who Will Take the Heat?

This activity engages students in a role play to negotiate an agreement between the United States and China about climate change policies. Students use given background material or can do their own additional research to present their assigned stakeholder's position in a simulated negotiation. Activity takes three to four 45-minute lesson periods.

Level: High School

Topics: Mitigation Strategies, Adaptation Strategies

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS3-1

Greenhouse Gas Tag

This kinetic activity has students perform the roles of shortwave light from the sun, longwave heat from the Earth,and greenhouse gasses. The greenhouse gasses 'tag' the students as heat trying to escape from the Earth, and visually shows that the more greenhouse gasses there are, the more heat is trapped in the Earth's atmosphere. The Earth and Sun can be played by teachers and students, and cones can be set up to represent the atmosphere.

This can be paired with before and after videos that explain how the greenhouse effect works and changes in global temperature. Students can be asked to make predictions about what will happen to global temperatures as CO2 increases. Upper level students can incorporate concepts such as albedo, and drivers of natural vs. anthropogenic climate change.

Level: 2nd grade -high school

Topics: wavelengths, weather and climate, energy

Related NGSS Standards: 3-ESS2-1 Earth's Systems, HS-ESS2-2, ESS3-1, HS-ESS2-4

5. Videos -

Navajo Elders' Observations on Climate Change

In this video segment, adapted from Navajo Technical College, two Navajo Elders speak about climate change and differences in the environment that they have observed.

Video length: 2:41 min.

Level: Middle School

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Extreme Weather, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1

Inuit Observations of Climate Change

This video features changes in the land, sea, and animals that are being observed by the residents of Sachs Harbour, Northwest Territories, Canada — many of whom hunt, trap, and fish—because of their long-standing and intimate connection with their ecosystem. Scientists interview the residents and record their observations in order to deepen our understanding of climate change in the polar region. Background essay and discussion questions are included.

Video length: 5:48 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS2.C1, MS-LS2.C2, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.D2, HS-LS2.C1, HS-LS2.C2, HS-LS4.D2

Climate Heroes: Stories of Change

This documentary film takes the viewer on a virtual trip around the world to visit communities in different countries (Asia, Africa, Central America, Australia) taking action on climate change. The documentary weaves together nine inspiring stories, showing that action on climate change is creating jobs, improving lives and turning dreams of a better future into reality.

Video length: 21 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.D1

Green Revolution

This is a series of 10 short videos, hosted by the National Science Foundation, each featuring scientists, research, and green technologies. The overall goal of this series is to encourage people to ask questions and look beyond fossil fuels for innovative solutions to our ever-growing energy needs.

Video length: multi-episode series, see link

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Mitigation Strategies, Adaptation Strategies, Personal Responsibility, Human Responses to Climate, Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Other Alternatives, Efficiency and Conservation, Energy Use

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.A1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-PS1.B3, MS-PS3.A4, MS-PS3.A5

North Dakota Tribal Members Talk About Climate Change

In this short video segment Native Americans talk about climate change and how it impacts their lives as they experience unexpected changes in environmental conditions. They describe observed changes in seasonality, how these changes affect ecosystems and habitats, their respect for Mother Earth, and the participation of tribal colleges in climate change research projects.

Video length: 2:15 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Climate Data, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS2.C1, MS-LS2.C2, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-LS2.C2, HS-LS4.D2

6. Climate Resilience Toolkit Case Studies - .

(These case studies are provided to support educators and more advanced student learning)

An Integrated Plan for Water and Long-Term Ecological Resilience

Recognizing their vulnerability to drought and climate change, federal, state, tribal, and local partners in Washington's Yakima River Basin developed a comprehensive plan to meet their diverse needs for water into the future.

Step to Resilience: Take Action

Topics: Ecosystems, Water Resources, Food, Food Production, Marine, Living Marine Resources, Tribal Nations, Adaptation, Water, Drought, Water, Ecosystems

The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Prepares for Climate Change Impacts

From changes in traditional foods to concerns of displacement from rising seas, this coastal community in the Pacific Northwest is assessing potential impacts to make decisions for their future.

Step to Resilience: Investigate Options

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning

Moving Forward Together: Building Tribal Resiliency and Partnerships

The four member tribes of the Upper Snake River Tribes Foundation collaborated on a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment, resulting in a quantified assessment of their shared concerns and establishment of a common foundation for future adaptation efforts.

Step to Resilience: Assess Vulnerability and Risks

Topics: Ecosystems, Fire Regimes, Water Resources, Invasive Species, Biodiversity Conservation, Protecting and Enhancing the Resilience of Ecosystems, Food, Food Production, Health, Food and Water-Related Threats, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Capacity Building, Water, Flooding, Drought

Quinault Indian Nation Plans for Village Relocation

As the threats of tsunami and sea level rise are joined by real and potential climate impacts, the Quinault community looks to move the lower village of Taholah to higher ground.

Step to Resilience: Prioritize and Plan

Topics: Coasts, Tsunami, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Relocation

Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Plans for Change on the Olympic Peninsula

With valuable cultural and dietary assets at risk from sea level rise, this Pacific Northwest Tribe developed a plan to identify community adaptation priorities and concerns, and charted a course of action to address them.

Step to Resilience: Investigate Options

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning

HHMI Biointeractive

This interactive module allows students and educators to build models that explain how the Earth system works. The Click & Learn can be used to show how Earth is affected by human activities and natural phenomena.

Earth is a dynamic place with many components that interact and shape our habitats. Using this Click & Learn, students and teachers can create visualizations of the connections among different processes, activities, and measurable changes, each represented by a separate icon.

NASA CO2 Pumphandle Video

This animation shows change in atmospheric CO2 over the past 800,000 years. The sources of data and additional educational materials are provided here. This animation effectively shows annual changes in CO2 due to plant respiration (where the see-saw pattern results from greater land mass in the northern hemisphere). Then, the animation shows recent CO2 increases within the context of glacial-interglacial changes in CO2 derived from ice core records.

Key Message 2: Natural World and Cultural Heritage

Climate change and extreme events are already endangering the well-being of a wide range of wildlife, fish, and plants, which are intimately tied to tribal subsistence culture and popular outdoor recreation activities. Climate change is projected to continue to have adverse impacts on the regional environment, with implications for the values, identity, heritage, cultures, and quality of life of the region's diverse population. Adaptation and informed management, especially culturally appropriate strategies, will likely increase the resilience of the region's natural capital.

Sub-categories under this key message:

Linkage Between Observed Climate and Regional Risks
Future Climate Change Relevant to Regional Risks
Challenges, Opportunities, and Success Stories for Reducing Risk
Emerging Issues

1. Guiding Questions

What are the primary types of ecosystems in the region and how will they be impacted by climate change? Can you give some specific examples?
What is meant by cultural heritage? Who's cultural heritage is most impacted by climate change and why? Can you share some examples?
What adaptation or conservation measures can be undertaken to limit or adapt to the impacts of climate change on local ecosystems? What might the implications of these measures be on local cultural heritage?

2. Key Figures

Box 24.2: Pacific Salmon and the Identity and Culture of Northwest Tribes

For most Northwest tribes and Indigenous peoples, salmon fishing is more than a cultural, subsistence, and economic act. The tribes view salmon as an extension of life and an indicator of environmental health, and loss of salmon is equated with the loss of tribal identity and culture. As a testament of the importance of salmon, Julia Davis-Wheeler, a Nez Perce elder, stated: "We need the salmon because it is part of our lives and part of our history. The salmon is a part of us, and we are a part of it. Our children need to be able to feel what it is like to catch and eat salmon. They need to be able to experience that sense of respect that many of us have felt in past years."

3. Related Chapters from the NCA 2018 Report

(Listed the order they appear under this key message in the Report)

Ch. 7: Ecosystems, Ecosystem Services, and Biodiversity

Biodiversity—the variety of life on Earth—provides vital services that support and improve human health and well-being. Ecosystems, which are composed of living things that interact with the physical environment, provide numerous essential benefits to people. These benefits, termed ecosystem services, encompass four primary functions: provisioning materials, such as food and fiber; regulating critical parts of the environment, such as water quality and erosion control; providing cultural services, such as recreational opportunities and aesthetic value; and providing supporting services, such as nutrient cycling. Climate change poses many threats and potential disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity, as well as to the ecosystem services on which people depend.

Ch. 15: Tribes and Indigenous Peoples

Ch. 6: Forests

Ch. 15: Tribes and Indigenous Peoples, Key Message 2 - Physical, Mental, and Indigenous Values-based Health at Risk

Indigenous health is based on interconnected social and ecological systems that are being disrupted by a changing climate. As these changes continue, the health of individuals and communities will be uniquely challenged by climate impacts to lands, waters, foods, and other plant and animal species. These impacts threaten sites, practices, and relationships with cultural, spiritual, or ceremonial importance that are foundational to Indigenous peoples' cultural heritages, identities, and physical and mental health.

4. Lesson Plans -

Adapting to a Changing World

Level: High School, College

Topics: Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ETS1.A2

Why fly south? How climate change alters the phenology of plants and animals

This activity introduces students to plotting and analyzing phenology data. Students use 30 years of data that shows the date of the first lilac bloom and the number of days of ice cover of nearby Gull Lake. This activity could be completed in two half-hour discussion periods with graphs being completed at home or in class.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Measuring and Modeling Climate, Plants and Animals, Process of Science

Related NGSS Standards: MS-LS2-4, HS-ESS2-7, HS-LS2-2

Temperature and precipitation as limiting factors in ecosystems

This classroom activity is aimed at an understanding of different ecosystems by understanding the influence of temperature and precipitation. Students correlate graphs of vegetation vigor with those of temperature and precipitation data for four diverse ecosystems, ranging from near-equatorial to polar, and spanning both hemispheres to determine which climatic factor is limiting growth. Activity takes two 45-minute class periods.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Water Cycle, Regional Climates, Seasons, Solar Radiation, Seasonal Variability

Related NGSS Standards: MS-LS2-1, MS-LS2-3, HS-C1.5, HS-C2.1, HS-C4.2, HS-C4.3, HS-C5.2, HS-C7.1

Shine - Mini climate change musical

This learning activity is a climate change musical for K-12, youth groups or faith organizations. Shine weaves together climate science and performance art into a fun and powerful story, which spans 300 million years of geological time to convey how humanity, energy, and climate are interrelated. The duration of this learning activity depends on whether teachers choose to do the entire activity or choose specific modules to implement. It could be implemented as a one-day intensive, but it is more likely to be implemented over several weeks or months.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Causes of Climate Change, Climate Impacts, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.A1, MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS3.A2

5. Videos -

Navajo Elders' Observations on Climate Change

In this video segment, adapted from Navajo Technical College, two Navajo Elders speak about climate change and differences in the environment that they have observed.

Video length: 2:41 min.

Level: Middle School

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Extreme Weather, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1

A Subsistence Culture Impacted by Climate Change

A short video on how changing climate is impacting the ecosystem and thereby impacting traditional lifestyles of the Athabaskan people of Alaska.

Video length: 2:59 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-LS4.C4, HS-LS4.D1

Changing Planet: Warming Lakes

The video addresses impact of warming temperatures on major lakes of the world with specific focus on Lake Superior and Lake Tanganyika. It discusses the science of water stratification and its impact on lake ecosystems and on human populations whose livelihoods depend on the lakes.

Video length: 5:13 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.C1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.C1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS2.E1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-LS4.D1

Inuit Observations of Climate Change

Video length: 5:48 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Ecosystem Changes, Plants and Animals, Economic Impacts, Climate Impacts, Social Innovation

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS2.C1, MS-LS2.C2, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.D2, HS-LS2.C1, HS-LS2.C2, HS-LS4.D2

Sea-Level Rise for the Coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington

This video features Dr. Gary Griggs, a scientist with the National Research Council, discussing predictions for sea-level rise on the West Coast states. The video includes effective visualizations and animations of the effects of plate tectonics and sea level rise on the West Coast.

Video length: 4:43 min.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Sea Level Rise

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.A1, HS-ESS2.B2, HS-ESS2.C1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS3.B1, HS-ESS3.D1

Changing Climate: Changing Habitats

This video looks at the impact of changing climate on animal habitats around the world, showing how different creatures are responding to changing temperatures and precipitation patterns.

Video length: 5:25 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Ecosystem Changes, Plants and Animals, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-LS2.C1, MS-LS2.C2, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.E1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-LS2.C1, HS-LS2.C2, HS-LS4.D1

North Dakota Tribal Members Talk About Climate Change

Video length: 2:15 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Climate Data, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS2.C1, MS-LS2.C2, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-LS2.C2, HS-LS4.D2

6. Climate Resilience Toolkit Case Studies -

(These case studies are provided to support educators and more advanced student learning)

An Integrated Plan for Water and Long-Term Ecological Resilience

Step to Resilience: Take Action

Topics: Ecosystems, Water Resources, Food, Food Production, Marine, Living Marine Resources, Tribal Nations, Adaptation, Water, Drought, Ecosystems

Moving Forward Together: Building Tribal Resiliency and Partnerships

Step to Resilience: Assess Vulnerability and Risks

Topics: Ecosystems, Fire Regimes, Water Resources, Invasive Species, Biodiversity Conservation, Protecting and Enhancing the Resilience of Ecosystems

Food, Food Production, Health, Food- and Water-Related Threats, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Capacity Building, Water, Flooding, Drought

Our Spirits Remain Tied to This Land

The Puyallup Tribe conducted a climate change impact assessment for their ancestral lands along the Puyallup River and the coasts of Puget Sound—and improved tribal and regional adaptive capacity.

Step to Resilience: Explore Hazards

Topics: Built Environment, Community Resilience, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Adaptation, Capacity Building, Water, Flooding

The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Prepares for Climate Change Impacts

From changes in traditional foods to concerns of displacement from rising seas, this coastal community in the Pacific Northwest is assessing potential impacts to make decisions for their future.

Step to Resilience: Investigate Options

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning

How Vulnerable Are Salmon to a Changing Climate?

Researchers in Washington's South Fork Nooksack River are seeking to better understand the potential impacts of climate change on water quality and salmon recovery—a process they hope can be replicated and scaled in other watersheds across the country.

Step to Resilience: Assess Vulnerability and Risks

Topics: Ecosystems, Water Resources, Protecting and Enhancing the Resilience of Ecosystems, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Adaptation, Water, Ecosystems

Key Message 3: Infrastructure

Existing water, transportation, and energy infrastructure already face challenges from flooding, landslides, drought, wildfire, and heat waves. Climate change is projected to increase the risks from many of these extreme events, potentially compromising the reliability of water supplies, hydropower, and transportation across the region. Isolated communities and those with systems that lack redundancy are the most vulnerable. Adaptation strategies that address more than one sector, or are coupled with social and environmental co-benefits, can increase resilience.

Sub-categories under this key message:

Linkage Between Observed Climate and Regional Risks
Future Climate Change Relevant to Regional Risks
Challenges, Opportunities, and Success Stories for Reducing Risk
Emerging Issues

1. Guiding Questions

How might climate change affect the infrastructure in the region? Can you offer some specific examples?
Who will be most affected by flooding, drought and other extreme events? What are the implications of these impacts for the infrastructure system?
What can be done to avoid some of the problems associated with flooding, drought and other extreme events?
How can regional infrastructure be adapted to account for the increased risks associated with climate change?

2. Key Figures -

Box 24.3: Tribal Relocation as a Last Resort

The Quinault Indian Nation (QIN), located on the southern coast of Washington's Olympic Peninsula, has experienced repeated flood disasters, as described in the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit. In March 2014, coastal storm surge breached the seawall protecting the town of Taholah, flooding the lower village. In January 2015, heavy rainfall washed out roads, including the Highway 109 bridge, a main access road to and from QIN, and threatened wastewater treatment facilities. With more severe impacts anticipated with climate change, combined with risks from tsunamis, QIN's leadership developed a master plan to relocate the lower village to higher ground. The master plan is considered the first step toward realizing QIN's vision for relocation based on sustainable practices and cultural values. Other Washington tribes have also relocated or begun relocation efforts, including the Hoh Tribe, Quileute Tribe, Makah Tribe, and Shoalwater Bay Tribe. Relocation of a tribe is considered a last resort.

Figure 24.11: Multiple Climate Stressors Affect Vulnerable Infrastructure

Extreme events such as floods, heat waves, wildfires, landslides, and drought play an important role in the vulnerability of infrastructure. The figure, from Seattle City Light's Vulnerability Plan, illustrates how the utility's assets, operations, and management goals are affected by a broad range of climate impacts and extreme events. Adaptation strategies to increase the resilience of the energy system must focus on multiple potential risks as well as environmental considerations. Source: adapted from Raymond 2015

Figure 24.12: Single-Source Water Systems in Washington

The map shows public water systems in Washington that are single source, meaning they lack a backup supply, and service at least 25 people per day or have 15 or more connections. Smaller public water systems exist but are not shown. For operators of single source systems, it will likely be particularly difficult to deal with climate-related disruptions such as flooding, drought, and saltwater intrusion. Approximate well depth is indicated by color; shallower wells (less than 100 feet in blue and orange) are projected to be more vulnerable to impacts, although aquifer type also influences vulnerability. Although similar impacts will likely occur in Oregon and Idaho, the data are not readily available to assess at a statewide level

3. Related Chapters from the NCA 2018 Report

(Listed the order they appear under this key message in the Report)

Chapter 3: Water - Key Message 2: Deteriorating Water Infrastructure at Risk

Deteriorating water infrastructure compounds the climate risk faced by society. Extreme precipitation events are projected to increase in a warming climate and may lead to more severe floods and greater risk of infrastructure failure in some regions. Infrastructure design, operation, financing principles, and regulatory standards typically do not account for a changing climate. Current risk management does not typically consider the impact of compound extremes (co-occurrence of multiple events) and the risk of cascading infrastructure failure.

Ch. 4: Energy Supply, Delivery & Demand, Key Message 1 - Nationwide Impacts on Energy

The Nation's energy system is already affected by extreme weather events, and due to climate change, it is projected to be increasingly threatened by more frequent and longer-lasting power outages affecting critical energy infrastructure and creating fuel availability and demand imbalances. The reliability, security, and resilience of the energy system underpin virtually every sector of the U.S. economy. Cascading impacts on other critical sectors could affect economic and national security.

Ch. 11: Built Environment, Urban Systems, & Cities, Key Message 2 - Forward-looking Design for Urban Infrastructure

Damages from extreme weather events demonstrate current urban infrastructure vulnerabilities. With its long service life, urban infrastructure must be able to endure a future climate that is different from the past. Forward-looking design informs investment in reliable infrastructure that can withstand ongoing and future climate risks.

Ch. 12: Transportation, Key Message 1 - Transportation at Risk

A reliable, safe, and efficient U.S. transportation system is at risk from increases in heavy precipitation, coastal flooding, heat, wildfires, and other extreme events, as well as changes to average temperature. Throughout this century, climate change will continue to pose a risk to U.S. transportation infrastructure, with regional differences.

Ch. 28: Reducing Risks Through Adaptation Actions, Key Message 2 - Climate Change Outpaces Adaptation Planning

Successful adaptation has been hindered by the assumption that climate conditions are and will be similar to those in the past. Incorporating information on current and future climate conditions into design guidelines, standards, policies, and practices would reduce risk and adverse impacts.

Ch. 12: Transportation, Key Message 2 - Impacts to Urban and Rural Transportation

Extreme events that increasingly impact the transportation network are inducing societal and economic consequences, some of which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. In the absence of intervention, future changes in climate will lead to increasing transportation challenges, particularly because of system complexity, aging infrastructure, and dependency across sectors.

Ch. 10: Agriculture and Rural Communities, Key Message 4 - Vulnerability and Adaptive Capacity of Rural Communities

Ch. 5: Land Cover and Land-Use Change

Ch. 8: Coastal Effects

U.S. coasts are dynamic environments and economically vibrant places to live and work. As of 2013, coastal shoreline counties were home to 133.2 million people, or 42% of the population. The coasts are economic engines that support jobs in defense, fishing, transportation, and tourism industries; contribute substantially to the U.S. gross domestic product; and serve as hubs of commerce, with seaports connecting the country with global trading partners. Coasts are home to diverse ecosystems such as beaches, intertidal zones, reefs, seagrasses, salt marshes, estuaries, and deltas that support a range of important services including fisheries, recreation, and coastal storm protection. U.S. coasts span three oceans, as well as the Gulf of Mexico, the Great Lakes, and Pacific and Caribbean islands.

Ch. 3: Water, Key Message 1 - Changes in Water Quantity and Quality

Ch. 17: Sectoral Interactions, Multiple Stressors, & Complex Systems, Key Message 3 - Management of Interacting Systems

The joint management of interacting systems can enhance the resilience of communities, industries, and ecosystems to climate-related stressors. For example, during drought events, river operations can be managed to balance water demand for drinking water, navigation, and electricity production. Such integrated approaches can help avoid missed opportunities or unanticipated tradeoffs associated with the implementation of management responses to climate-related stressors.

Ch. 11: Built Environment, Urban Systems, & Cities, Key Message 4 - Urban Response to Climate Change

Cities across the United States are leading efforts to respond to climate change. Urban adaptation and mitigation actions can affect current and projected impacts of climate change and provide near-term benefits. Challenges to implementing these plans remain. Cities can build on local knowledge and risk management approaches, integrate social equity concerns, and join multicity networks to begin to address these challenges.

Ch. 3: Water - Key Message 3 - Water Management in a Changing Future

Ch. 16: Climate Effects on U.s. International Interests, Key Message 4 - Transboundary Resources

Ch. 17: Sectoral Interactions, Multiple Stressors, & Complex Systems, Key Message 4, Advancing Knowledge

Predicting the responses of complex, interdependent systems will depend on developing meaningful models of multiple, diverse systems, including human systems, and methods for characterizing uncertainty.

4. Lesson Plans -

Feeling the Heat

In this activity, students learn about the urban heat island effect by investigating which areas of their schoolyard have higher temperatures - trees, grass, asphalt, and other materials. Based on their results, they hypothesize how concentrations of surfaces that absorb heat might affect the temperature in cities - the urban heat island effect. Then they analyze data about the history of Los Angeles heat waves and look for patterns in the Los Angeles climate data and explore patterns. Activity takes about two 45-min class periods. Additional materials are required.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Land Use Changes, Measurements and Observations, Climate Impacts, Land Use Changes

Related Activities: How Cities Affect Their Local Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, HS-C2.2

Climate Change, After the Storm

This 3-activity sequence addresses the question: To what extent should coastal communities build or rebuild? The activity uses social science and geoscience data to prepare an evidence-based response to the question, in targeted US coastal communities. Series of activities will take about 6-7 hours of in-class time plus homework.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Sea Level Rise, Hurricanes and Storms, Extreme Weather, Risk Management, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS3-5

Beat the Uncertainty: Planning Climate-Resilient Cities

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Sea Level Rise, Climate Impacts, Adaptation Strategies, Risk Management

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.C2, HS-ESS3.C2, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-ETS1.B1

Generating electricity: Evaluating the sustainability of today's and tomorrow's energy sources

In this activity, students learn about the energy sources used by their local utility provider to generate electricity, and work in small groups to evaluate the sustainability of either a renewable or non-renewable energy source used to generate electricity. This lesson takes about three to five 45 minute classroom periods.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Efficiency and Conservation, Energy Infrastructure, Energy Use

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3-2, HS-ESS3-3

Oceans of Energy

This lesson focuses on the importance of ocean exploration as a way to learn how to capture, control, and distribute renewable ocean energy resources. Students begin by identifying ways the ocean can generate energy and then research one ocean energy source using the Internet. Finally, students build a Micro-Hydro Electric Generator. Activity takes four to five 45-minute lesson periods.

Level: Middle School

Topics: Fossil Fuels, Other Alternatives

Related NGSS Standards: MS-PS3-5

5. Videos -

Changing Planet: Rising Sea Level

This video discusses the social and economic impacts (worldwide and in the US) of sea level rise caused by global warming (aired April 1, 2011).

Video length: 6:21 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Ocean and Climate, Measuring and Modeling Climate, Sea Level Rise, National Security, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.C1, MS-ESS2.C2, MS-ESS2.C3, MS-ESS2.C4, MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS2.C1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS3.D1

Extreme Weather and Climate Change

This video explores what scientists know about how changes in global climate and increasing temperatures affect different extreme weather events.

Video length: 4:01 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Climate Compared to Weather, Climate Data, Extreme Weather

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS2.D2, MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.B1

Adapting to a Changing Climate

This 20-minute video, produced by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, describes adaptation strategies undertaken by several groups and nations in response to rising sea level and other aspects of climate change.

Video length: 19:34 min

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Public Health, Climate Impacts, Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.A1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1

Texas: Wind and Efficiency - Earth: The Operators' Manual

This engaging video focuses on national and global wind energy potential by specifically highlighting Texas' role as wind energy leader and energy efficiency efforts in Houston, Texas.

Video length: 8:20 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Carbon-free Energy, Wind Energy

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.A1, MS-PS3.A1, MS-PS3.A2, MS-PS3.B1, HS-ESS3.A2, HS-PS3.A1, HS-PS3.A2, HS-PS3.B2, HS-PS3.B3, HS-PS3.B4, HS-PS3.D1

The Rebuilders-Rebuild by Design

This video is about the Rebuild by Design competition offered to address the structural and social vulnerabilities exposed by Superstorm Sandy.

Video length: 7:02 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS2.D2, MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS3.B1, HS-ETS1.A2, HS-ETS1.B1

Hoover Dam and Hydroelectric Power

Video length: 3:44 min

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Other Alternatives

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.A1, MS-PS3.A1, MS-PS3.A2, MS-PS3.B1, MS-PS3.B2, HS-ESS3.A1, HS-ESS3.A2, HS-ETS1.A2, HS-ETS1.B1, HS-PS3.A1, HS-PS3.A2, HS-PS3.A3, HS-PS3.A5

6. Climate Resilience Toolkit Case Studies -

(These case studies are provided to support educators and more advanced student learning)

An Integrated Plan for Water and Long-Term Ecological Resilience

Step to Resilience: Take Action

Topics: Ecosystems, Water Resources, Food, Food Production, Marine, Living Marine Resources, Tribal Nations, Adaptation, Water, Drought, Ecosystems

Quinault Indian Nation Plans for Village Relocation

As the threats of tsunami and sea level rise are joined by real and potential climate impacts, the Quinault community looks to move the lower village of Taholah to higher ground.

Step to Resilience: Prioritize and Plan

Topics: Coasts, Tsunami, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Relocation

Seasonal Climate Forecast Serves as a Call to Action

Faced with an increased chance for heavy precipitation and flooding, an emergency manager in Oregon spread the word, encouraging groups to be prepared.

Step to Resilience: Take Action

Topics: Built Environment, Disaster Planning, Health, Extreme Events, Water, Flooding

Preparing for Sea Level Rise in Estuaries Along the Oregon Coast

For many decades, farmers built low walls or dikes across coastal wetlands in Oregon to extend their farmland. Now, efforts to restore wetlands and prepare for sea level rise require information about where these dikes are and who is responsible for them.

Step to Resilience: Assess Vulnerability and Risks

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Ecosystems, Biodiversity Conservation

Tulalip Tribes: Saving Their Sacred Salmon

People of the Salmon collaborate with farmers to ensure survival of their sacred fish.

Step to Resilience:

Topics: Ecosystems, Water Resources, Ecosystems, Carbon Balance, Biodiversity Conservation, Energy, Energy Production, Building Resilience in the Energy Sector, Marine Fisheries and Coastal Communities, Tribal Nations, Adaptation, Mitigation, Capacity Building, Water, Flooding

Key Message 4: Health

Organizations and volunteers that make up the Northwest's social safety net are already stretched thin with current demands. Healthcare and social systems will likely be further challenged with the increasing frequency of acute events, or when cascading events occur. In addition to an increased likelihood of hazards and epidemics, disruptions in local economies and food systems are projected to result in more chronic health risks. The potential health co-benefits of future climate mitigation investments could help to counterbalance these risks.

Sub-categories under this key message:

Linkage Between Climate Change and Regional Risks
Future Climate Change Relevant to Regional Risks
Challenges, Opportunities, and Success Stories for Reducing Risk
Emerging Issues

1. Guiding Questions

What human health risks will arise because of climate change in the region?
What adaptations or steps could be taken to help avoid these problems?
What populations are most vulnerable to health risks associated with climate change and why?

2. Key Figures -

Box 24.4: Healthcare Partnerships That Increase Resilience

A new International Transformational Resilience Coalition (ITRC) has grown out of the Northwest and is engaging cross-sector partners in pilot projects to build psycho-social resilience in some communities. The initiative uses neuroscience and mindfulness to train leaders and organizations on how to cope with, and use, climate-related adversities to catalyze collective adaptation. Composed of more than 250 mental health, trauma treatment, resilience, climate, and other professionals, the ITRC is working to enhance the ability of organizations and communities to heal, grow, and flourish during economic, social, and environmental stress and adversity.

3. Related Chapters from the NCA 2018 Report

(Listed the order they appear under this key message in the Report)

Ch. 13: Air Quality, Key Message 2 - Increasing Impacts of Wildfires

Wildfire smoke degrades air quality, increasing the health risks to tens of millions of people in the United States. More frequent and severe wildfires due to climate change would further diminish air quality, increase incidences of respiratory illness from exposure to wildfire smoke, impair visibility, and disrupt outdoor recreational activities.

Ch. 13: Air Quality, Key Message 1 - Increasing Risks from Air Pollution

More than 100 million people in the United States live in communities where air pollution exceeds health-based air quality standards. Unless counteracting efforts to improve air quality are implemented, climate change will worsen existing air pollution levels. This worsened air pollution would increase the incidence of adverse respiratory and cardiovascular health effects, including premature death. Increased air pollution would also have other environmental consequences, including reduced visibility and damage to agricultural crops and forests.

Ch. 15: Tribes & Indigenous Peoples, Key Message 2 - Physical, Mental, and Indigenous Values-based Health at Risk

Ch. 14 Human Health, Key Message 3 - Adaptation Reduces Risks and Improves Health

Proactive adaptation policies and programs reduce the risks and impacts from climate-sensitive health outcomes and from disruptions in healthcare services. Additional benefits to health arise from explicitly accounting for climate change risks in infrastructure planning and urban design.

4. Lesson Plans -

Climate Change and Human Health

In this activity, students investigate the impacts of changing climatic conditions on human health and consider the benefits of climate mitigation and adaptation to human health. This learning activity takes about two 50-minute class periods.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Ecosystem Changes, Public Health, Climate Impacts, Risk Management, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2-2, HS-ESS3-1, HS-ESS3-4, HS-LS2-7

Beat the Uncertainty: Planning Climate-Resilient Cities

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Sea Level Rise, Climate Impacts, Adaptation Strategies, Risk Management

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.C2, HS-ESS3.C2, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-ETS1.B1

Rooftop Gardens

In this hands-on activity, students explore whether rooftop gardens are a viable option for combating the urban heat island effect. The guiding question is: Can rooftop gardens reduce the temperature inside and outside of houses? Activity takes about 2 hours with extra time for students to gather materials and develop design plans. Additional materials are necessary.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Land Use Changes, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3-3, MS-ETS1-1, MS-ETS1-3, MS-PS4-2, HS-ESS3-4, HS-ETS1-3

Stressed Out!

In this activity, students research various topics about ocean health, e.g. overfishing, habitat destruction, invasive species, climate change, pollution, and ocean acidification. An optional extension activity has them creating an aquatic biosphere in a bottle experiment in which they can manipulate variables. Activity takes about 4-6 class periods. Computer access is required.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Topics, Ocean and Climate, Ecosystem Changes, Plants and Animals, Ocean Warming and Acidification

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3-4, MS-LS2-4, HS-ESS3-4, HS-ETS1-3, HS-LS2-7

The Changing Geographic Distribution of Malaria with Global Climate Warming

This activity engages students in the analysis of climate data to first find areas in the southern United States that are now close to having conditions in which the malaria parasite and its mosquito hosts thrive and then attempt to forecast when areas might become climatically suitable. Activity takes about two weeks of class time including homework assignments. Computer with Internet access required.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Public Health

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS3-5, HS-LS2-2

5. Videos -

Adapting to a Changing Climate

Video length: 19:34 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Public Health, Climate Impacts, Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.A1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1

Feeling the Effects of Climate Change

In this video, several scientists identify and describe examples of increasing health problems that they believe are related to climate change.

Video length: 13:36 min.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Public Health, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.A1, HS-ESS2.D1

Navajo Elders' Observations on Climate Change

In this video segment, adapted from Navajo Technical College, two Navajo Elders speak about climate change and differences in the environment that they have observed.

Video length: 2:41 min.

Level: Middle School

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Extreme Weather, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1

Changing Planet: Infectious Diseases

This video illustrates conditions under which two infectious diseases - cholera and dengue fever - flourish, and how climate change is likely to exacerbate those conditions.

Note: you may need to scroll down the Changing Planet video page to get to this video.

Video length: 4:56 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Plants and Animals, Public Health

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-LS4.D1

Why Climate Change Makes Stronger Storms

This video reviews how increasing temperatures in the Arctic are affecting the path of the jet stream, the severity of storms, and the length of individual weather events (rain, storms, drought).

Video length: 7:27 min.

Level: College

Topics: Climate Compared to Weather, Extreme Weather, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS3.B1

Science for a Hungry World: Agriculture and Climate Change

This NASA video explores the relationship between climate and agriculture. The video discusses the variability of climate impacts in different regions, as well as the effects of population growth and higher demands for food in areas that already struggle to supply food for the people. The video highlights the need for accurate, continuous, and accessible data and computer models from NASA satellites to track and predict the challenges farmers face as they adjust to a changing climate.

Video length: 5 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Measuring and Modeling Climate, Agricultural Changes and Food Security

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.A1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS1.C1, MS-PS3.D1, MS-PS3.D2, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D2, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS2.E1, HS-ESS3.A1, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-LS1.C1, HS-PS3.D2

6. Climate Resilience Toolkit Case Studies -

(These case studies are provided to support educators and more advanced student learning)

An Integrated Plan for Water and Long-Term Ecological Resilience

Step to Resilience: Take Action

Topics: Ecosystems, Water Resources, Food, Food Production, Marine, Living Marine Resources, Tribal Nations, Adaptation, Water, Drought, Water, Ecosystems

Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Plans for Change on the Olympic Peninsula

Step to Resilience: Investigate Options

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning

Seasonal Climate Forecast Serves as a Call to Action

Faced with an increased chance for heavy precipitation and flooding, an emergency manager in Oregon spread the word, encouraging groups to be prepared.

Step to Resilience: Take Action

Topics: Built Environment, Disaster Planning, Health, Extreme Events, Water, Flooding

Key Message 5: Frontline Communities

Communities on the front lines of climate change experience the first, and often the worst, effects. Frontline communities in the Northwest include tribes and Indigenous peoples, those most dependent on natural resources for their livelihoods, and the economically disadvantaged. These communities generally prioritize basic needs, such as shelter, food, and transportation; frequently lack economic and political capital; and have fewer resources to prepare for and cope with climate disruptions. The social and cultural cohesion inherent in many of these communities provides a foundation for building community capacity and increasing resilience.

Sub-categories under this key message:

Linkage Between Observed Climate and Regional Risks
Future Climate Change Relevant to Regional Risks
Challenges, Opportunities, and Success Stories for Reducing Risk
Emerging Issues

1. Guiding Questions

Why are indigenous and tribal peoples particularly at risk for climate change impacts?
What are some of the opportunities and adaptations indigenous and tribal communities are undertaking to maintain local culture in the face of climate change impacts?
How can or have regional partnerships supported frontline communities in adapting to climate change impacts?
What are some of the unique challenges indiginous and tribal communities face in the region? Can you give some specific examples?

2. Key Figures -

Box 24.5: Collaborations Can Use Existing Social Cohesion to Build Resilience

Social cohesion, social networks, and other forms of social capital can help communities be more resilient to climate change. The Pacific Northwest Tribal Climate Change Network is a regional collaboration aimed at supporting tribal and Indigenous climate resilience by better understanding and communicating the impacts of climate change on Indigenous peoples, tribal sovereignty, and culture. The Network does this by sharing resources such as case studies, tools, and funding opportunities through the Online Tribal Climate Change Guide (https://tribalclimateguide.uoregon.edu/); bringing together a diverse group of tribes, agencies, and nonprofit and private sector organizations; and discussing key actions and initiatives that are building resilience among tribes in the region.

Box 24.6: Community Organizations Empower Frontline Communities

Community-based organizations in the Northwest's two most urban centers, Seattle and Portland, have engaged communities of color to assess priorities for building climate resilience. Our People, Our Planet, Our Power and Tyee Khunamokwst: Leading Together both emphasize that any efforts to build climate resilience will be undermined if low-income people and people of color continue to be displaced. Both community-driven efforts indicate strong support for strategies that reduce emissions and simultaneously build community resilience, such as increasing access to active transportation options and installing green infrastructure within under-resourced communities. The cities of Seattle and Portland have made progress in placing equity more centrally in municipal climate planning. The Portland-Multnomah Climate Action through Equity report documents how these efforts led to a more inclusive and accountable climate action plan, and the Seattle Equity & Environment Agenda articulates current disparities and a commitment to ensuring that people most affected by environmental injustices have a strong voice in finding solutions moving forward.

Box 24.7: 2015–A Prelude of What's to Come?

In 2015, the Northwest experienced its warmest year on record. Severe drought, large wildfires, heat waves (on land and in the ocean), and record harmful algal blooms occurred. An exceptionally warm winter led to record-low mountain snowpack across the region as precipitation fell largely as rain instead of snow.9 The lack of snowpack and a dry spring led to dry fuel conditions that primed the largest wildfire season recorded in the region.

3. Related Chapters from the NCA 2018 Report

(Listed the order they appear under this key message in the Report)

Ch. 15: Tribes and Indigenous Peoples

Ch. 10: Agriculture and Rural Communities

Ch. 14: Human Health, Key Message 1 - Climate Change Affects the Health of All Americans

The health and well-being of Americans are already affected by climate change, with the adverse health consequences projected to worsen with additional climate change. Climate change affects human health by altering exposures to heat waves, floods, droughts, and other extreme events; vector-, food- and waterborne infectious diseases; changes in the quality and safety of air, food, and water; and stresses to mental health and well-being.

Ch. 15: Tribes and Indigenous Peoples, Key Message 1 - Indigenous Livelihoods and Economies at Risk

Climate change threatens Indigenous peoples' livelihoods and economies, including agriculture, hunting and gathering, fishing, forestry, energy, recreation, and tourism enterprises. Indigenous peoples' economies rely on, but face institutional barriers to, their self-determined management of water, land, other natural resources, and infrastructure that will be impacted increasingly by changes in climate.

Ch. 15: Tribes & Indigenous Peoples, Key Message 2 - Physical, Mental, and Indigenous Values-based Health at Risk

Ch. 15: Tribes and Indigenous Peoples, Key Message 3 - Adaptation, Disaster Management, Displacement, and Community-led Relocations

Many Indigenous peoples have been proactively identifying and addressing climate impacts; however, institutional barriers exist in the United States that severely limit their adaptive capacities. These barriers include limited access to traditional territory and resources and the limitations of existing policies, programs, and funding mechanisms in accounting for the unique conditions of Indigenous communities. Successful adaptation in Indigenous contexts relies on use of Indigenous knowledge, resilient and robust social systems and protocols, a commitment to principles of self-determination, and proactive efforts on the part of federal, state, and local governments to alleviate institutional barriers.

Ch. 17: Complex Systems, Key Message 1 - Interactions Among Sectors

The sectors and systems exposed to climate (for example, energy, water, and agriculture) interact with and depend on one another and other systems less directly exposed to climate (such as the financial sector). In addition, these interacting systems are not only exposed to climate-related stressors such as floods, droughts, and heat waves, they are also subject to a range of non-climate factors, from population movements to economic fluctuations to urban expansion. These interactions can lead to complex behaviors and outcomes that are difficult to predict. It is not possible to fully understand the implications of climate change on the United States without considering the interactions among sectors and their consequences.

Ch. 10: Agriculture and Rural Communities, Key Message 1 - Reduced Agricultural Productivity

Food and forage production will decline in regions experiencing increased frequency and duration of drought. Shifting precipitation patterns, when associated with high temperatures, will intensify wildfires that reduce forage on rangelands, accelerate the depletion of water supplies for irrigation, and expand the distribution and incidence of pests and diseases for crops and livestock. Modern breeding approaches and the use of novel genes from crop wild relatives are being employed to develop higher-yielding, stress-tolerant crops.

4. Lesson Plans -

Stressed Out!

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Ocean and Climate, Ecosystem Changes, Plants and Animals, Ocean Warming / Acidification

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.C1, MS-LS2.A1, MS-LS2.C1, HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ETS1.A2, HS-LS2.C1, HS-LS2.C2

Adapting to a Changing World

Level: High School, College

Topics: Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate Change

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ETS1.A2

Climate Change and Human Health

Level: High School, College

Topics: Ecosystem Changes, Public Health, Climate Impacts, Risk Management, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2-2, HS-ESS3-1, HS-ESS3-4, HS-LS2-7

Energy and the Poor - Black Carbon in Developing Nations

An activity focusing on black carbon. This activity explores the impacts of the use of black carbon generating wood, dung, and charcoal for fuel in developing countries. Activity takes three class periods. Computer with internet access required.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Albedo, Aerosols, Mitigation Strategies, Fossil Fuels, Efficiency and Conservation

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS3-1

Aerial Photography and Mapping Lesson Plan: Images of Katrina

This activity from NOAA Ocean Service is about using aerial photographs to assess the impact of extreme weather events such as Hurricane Katrina. The activity features aerial views of Biloxi, MS post-Katrina and enables students to see evidence of the power of extreme weather on the environment. Activity takes about 1-2 class periods. Computer and Internet access including Google maps is ideal but can be replaced.

Level: High School

Topics: Hurricanes and Storms

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS3-1, HS-ESS3.B1, HS-ESS3.D1

5. Videos -

Adapting to a Changing Climate

Video length: 19:34 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Public Health, Climate Impacts, Adaptation Strategies, Human Responses to Climate

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.A1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1

Related Video: A Bangladesh a case study

Climate Heroes: Stories of Change

Video length: 21 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS3.D1, HS-ESS3.D1

North Dakota Tribal Members Talk About Climate Change

Video length: 2:15 min.

Level: Middle / High School

Topics: Climate Data, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS2.C1, MS-LS2.C2, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-LS2.C2, HS-LS4.D2

Tuvalu - Islands on the frontline of climate change

This narrated slideshow describes the impact of sea level rise on Tuvalu, one of the low-lying island nations in the South Pacific. As the frequency and intensity of floods and cyclones increases, the island is shrinking and saltwater intrusion is affecting local food production on the plantations. As a result, many residents are moving off the island to New Zealand, where they face major cultural changes.

Level: High School, College

Topics: Sea Level Rise, Heavy Precipitation/Floods, Extreme Weather

Related NGSS Standards: HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS2.D3, HS-ESS2.D4, HS-ESS3.A1, HS-ESS3.D1

A Subsistence Culture Impacted by Climate Change

A short video on how changing climate is impacting the ecosystem and thereby impacting traditional lifestyles of the Athabaskan people of Alaska.

Video length: 2:59 min.

Level: Middle / High School, College

Topics: Measurements and Observations, Ecosystem Changes, Climate Impacts

Related NGSS Standards: MS-ESS2.D1, MS-ESS3.C1, MS-ESS3.D1, MS-LS4.D1, HS-ESS2.D1, HS-ESS3.C1, HS-ESS3.D1, HS-LS4.C4, HS-LS4.D1

6. Climate Resilience Toolkit Case Studies -

(These case studies are provided to support educators and more advanced student learning)

Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Plans for Change on the Olympic Peninsula

Step to Resilience: Investigate Options

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning

Moving Forward Together: Building Tribal Resiliency and Partnerships

Step to Resilience: Assess Vulnerability and Risks

Topics: Ecosystems, Fire Regimes, Water Resources, Invasive Species, Biodiversity, Conservation, Protecting and Enhancing the Resilience of Ecosystems, Food, Food Production, Health, Food- and Water-Related Threats, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Capacity Building, Water, Flooding, Drought

Preparing for Sea Level Rise in Estuaries Along the Oregon Coast

Step to Resilience: Assess Vulnerability and Risks

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Ecosystems, Biodiversity Conservation

Quinault Indian Nation Plans for Village Relocation

As the threats of tsunami and sea level rise are joined by real and potential climate impacts, the Quinault community looks to move the lower village of Taholah to higher ground.

Step to Resilience: Prioritize and Plan

Topics: Coasts, Tsunami, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning, Relocation

The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Prepares for Climate Change Impacts

From changes in traditional foods to concerns of displacement from rising seas, this coastal community in the Pacific Northwest is assessing potential impacts to make decisions for their future.

Step to Resilience: Investigate Options

Topics: Coasts, Sea Level Rise, Tribal Nations, Assessment and Planning

Disclaimer: The National Climate Assessment regional resources for educators is written, edited, and moderated by each regional team of contributors. Posts reflect the views of the regional team themselves and not necessarily Climate.gov, NOAA and USGCRP.

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