Browsing by Subject "Climate adaptation"

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    Green Stormwater Infrastructure Code Audits: Updating Local Regulatory Structures for a Changing Climate
    (2024-03) Carlson, Jessy R; Hinds, Juli Beth; Rodman, Madison G; Sprague, Tiffany A
    The impacts of climate change, such as increasingly intense storms and more frequent floods, mean regulatory frameworks designed to manage stormwater runoff in previous decades may no longer be effective; codes and ordinances may inadvertently prohibit or inhibit the use of nature-based approaches to managing stormwater runoff. To adapt to current and projected climate change scenarios, local governments need updated regulatory frameworks that effectively manage stormwater runoff in a changed climate. Adapting local regulations to promote systematic use of green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) and other nature-based solutions is a key strategy that can contribute to the development of resilient, climate-adapted communities. We worked with ten urban and rural municipalities across the Duluth area to conduct code audits and assist with designing and accomplishing community-specific GSI objectives, and we are currently expanding this project to include Lake and Cook Counties. These participating communities display a diverse array of geographical and demographic characteristics. However, after working with these communities’ technical staff and elected representatives to assess their regulatory structures and internal policies for areas that could be updated to prepare for increased heavy precipitation events, we have noted some important themes regarding needs, challenges, and opportunities that cut across the region. This poster will share what we are hearing from these communities and whether these themes point to emerging climate adaptation needs in Northeast Minnesota.
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    Longitudinal Survey Results from a Pilot Community Climate Communicators Program
    (2023-05-05) Clark, Suzanna; Roop, Heidi; Gonzales, Katerina; Mohr, Caryn; Dybsetter, Anne; Kingery, Linda; hroop@umn.edu; Roop, Heidi A; University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership
    More frequent, effective climate conversations initiated by a diversity of trusted voices can help to increase climate concern and desire for action at the community level. However, in the United States, there is a disconnect between the level of concern individuals have about climate change and the extent to which individuals talk about the issue. To help bridge this gap, the University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership developed a training program aimed at inspiring and equipping local community members across Greater Minnesota with the skills and confidence to have effective conversations about climate change in their communities. This paper summarizes the programmatic activities we used to support our goals, and some reflections on the program's results. This pilot program provides a framework for future efforts that can be facilitated by Extension programs, community-based organizations, universities, and others to inspire and accelerate similar community-centered climate conversations. The data included herein are from a survey distributed to program participants at the beginning and end of the program. The survey includes questions related to participants' perceptions of climate change, confidence in communicating about climate change, and satisfaction with the program. Data are both qualitative (short answer and multiple choice), and quantitative.