PNW SciCast Webinar: Climate change vulnerability assessment and adaptation on western U.S. national forests

Over the last decade, considerable progress has been made in developing vulnerability assessment tools and in applying these methods to identify and implement climate change adaptation approaches for natural resource management organizations. The Adaptation Partners team, led by the U.S. Forest Service, has conducted climate change vulnerability assessments and developed adaptation options for 50 National Forests and 30 National Park Service units across the western U.S., involving over 1,500 resource managers. The webinar will cover key components of the adaptation process, including establishing a science-management partnership; evaluating current forest conditions and management objectives; conducting detailed science-based vulnerability assessments; developing adaptation approaches and on-the-ground tactics; implementing adaptation tactics; and monitoring outcomes and adjusting as needed. Presenters will discuss how climate change vulnerability assessments and adaptation options have been used in forest planning and management, including examples of managing infrastructure, forest vegetation, fish habitat, and cultural resources. Related products, tools, and lessons learned will also be discussed.