The NYS Climate Impact Assessment: An Introduction for Municipal Officials

New York’s new Climate Impact Assessment provides a science-based analysis of what to expect from climate change to enable decision-makers at all levels—from individual residents, businesses, and landowners to municipal and state government—to better understand the impacts and make informed choices about how to prepare for them. The assessment also strives to show how addressing climate change provides opportunities to enhance equity and reduce the vulnerability of those most at risk.

This webinar will provide an overview of the Climate Impact Assessment and its major findings, with an emphasis on ecosystems, rivers, and water resources in the Hudson Valley and Catskills. Participants will learn about updated regional climate projections and the reports and related resources available in the assessment.

In addition, DEC staff will share how the Hudson River Estuary Program is helping municipalities advance local climate adaptation and resilience through climate vulnerability assessments and adaptation plans, climate-adaptive waterfront design, and the Hudson Valley Flood Resilience Network, among other initiatives.