MISSOULA – Climate change is an issue that is being discussed worldwide and in Missoula people are looking into how this topic could impact the local community.
Climate Smart Missoula partnered with the county and city to create a vulnerability assessment to discern areas where adjustments can be made to lessen the effects of climate change in the future.
They say the assessment won’t be complete until after public comment is taken and reviewed.
“This process right now will help inform what we prioritize and the strategies that can forward. Sort of the solutions piece, which is where it gets a little more you know hopeful and positive,” Climate Smart Missoula Executive Director Amy Cilimburg said.
“We want to just make sure that we’re learning as much as we can from that community at large “So, there’s folks right here in the city they might have different perspectives or different understandings than folks maybe up in Seeley Lake or different parts of the county,” she continued.
One of two open houses was held Wednesday evening where residents could give their input on how they think climate change impacts the Missoula community.
The team of researchers looked at how agriculture, wildfire smoke, emergency services and more could be affected by potential climate change.
Cilimberg says this research is more relevant than people may realize.
“You know, some of the things that might be good for a community and help people be healthier, given wildfire smoke, can also help them in other ways be healthy or have healthier homes or save energy or things.”
“So we’re really interested in some of those solutions that just lead us to a more resilient and just a stronger community,” said Cilimburg.
If you’re an avid fisherman you may want to take a look at the aquatic systems and fisheries section of the report. There is also a section for recreation and tourism. Click here to view the full report.
The next open house will take place on May 16 at the Missoula County Courthouse Annex.
