Western Governors, Obama Administration Discuss Strategies, Resources for Climate Adaptation

Western governors today discussed with the Obama Administration and others climate adaptation strategies to help ensure that states and the region have sufficient water supplies, transmission that supports clean energy resources, a thriving wildlife population and reduced risks of forest fire.

"The West is already beginning to see the effects of climate change, which could have major impacts on our economies, public health and the environment," said Gov. Brian Schweitzer (Mont.), Chairman of the Western Governors’ Association. "While others are in Copenhagen working on the big picture, it is the states and cities that will be on the front line. Our focus has to be on how we best protect and manage resources and maintain a strong economy for decades to come."

Schweitzer moderated the opening session of WGA’s Winter Meeting being held here through Thursday. Also attending the meeting are Govs. C.L. "Butch" Otter (Idaho), Vice Chairman; Felix Camacho (Guam); Jim Gibbons (Nev.); Bill Richardson (N.M.); Ted Kulongoski (Ore.); Gary Herbert (Utah); and Dave Freudenthal (Wyo.).

The WGA formed a Climate Adaptation Working Group earlier this year to advise the governors on such things as climate adaptation models and support states as they develop adaptation plans.

"We know — whether we’re governors, federal officials or on-the-ground managers — that this is a team effort," said Gov. Richardson. "That’s why I was a big advocate for forming WGA’s West-wide group to address these issues so critical to our communities and quality of life."

David Hayes, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Interior, emphasized in his remarks the importance of adaptive management and the need for better data. He said DOI will be creating eight regional science centers that will likely be located at universities. The centers will assist in gathering data that will lead to a better understanding of what’s happening and anticipate changes.

A group of panelists representing diverse interests offered their perspectives and recommendations for preparing for and responding to likely impacts. Participants and topics included:

* David Behar, Staff Chair, Water Utility Climate Alliance – Impacts Western water utilities are seeing to water supplies and what is being done to prepare for those changes, including investments in planning and infrastructure.

* Elliott Mainzer, General Manager, Bonneville Power Administration – Impacts to hydropower and other water-intensive electricity generation.

* Bob Model, Chairman, Boone and Crockett Club – Preserving wildlife in a changing climate.

* Del Walters, Chief, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection – Catastrophic fire and pests and how the West should respond.

For more information about WGA’s Climate Adaptation program visit the WGA Web site at http://www.westgov.org.