RNR 540: Climate Change Adaptation: Perspectives at the Nexus of Science, Society, and Resource Management

Much of modern society's experience of managing resources and protecting people and infrastructure has occurred during a period of relatively stable climate. In the most recent decades in the Southwest, we have observed a cascade of impacts associated with temperature increases, including changes in snow hydrology, in phenology, and in the severity of drought impacts. Projected future climate changes and impacts may lie outside the range of climate variation that we have observed and may have more serious consequences for society and the environment. Anticipating projected changes will allow society to identify response options across a range of vulnerabilities and manage the risks associated with projected climate changes. In the best possible cases, these actions or adaptations, may provide economic and other benefits to society. 

In this 3 credit course, we will examine actions to reduce vulnerabilities or increase resilience to the potential impacts of climate change.  While the general focus will be on impacts and responses in the arid Southwest (water, fire, species, ecosystems), we will also investigate the philosophies and frameworks for advancing action and incorporation of adaptation planning at the regional, national and international scale.  Graduate-level requirements include completing a more in-depth project or research paper based on the course internship.  The writing assignment will be identified by agency partners and approved by the instructors, and will address a subject of direct relevance to the organization's program.