Science Tools for Managers
Science Tools for Managers
Through our science projects, the CASCs strive to conduct science that is directly useful to resource managers and informs adaptation decision making. CASC-funded researchers develop data sets, web applications, assessments, surveys, and other tools that are publicly available for future management or research projects. Browse our projects on this topic below.
Filter Total Items: 620
Refining Flood Risk Predictions in Hawaiʻi with Generative Machine Learning
Project Overview As climate change intensifies, accurately forecasting regional flood, drought, and heat risks is critical for planning, but current global climate models lack the resolution needed for useful local predictions. Researchers supported by this Pacific Islands CASC project will use generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create high-resolution precipitation maps and flood...
Relieving the Sting: Spatial Prioritization for Pollinator Conservation Under a Changing Climate
Project Overview The Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, and other native bees and pollinators, are declining due to climate change, habitat loss, and other stressors like pathogens and pesticide-use. Researchers supported by this Midwest CASC project will study how certain stressors interact to affect the geographic distribution of Rusty Patched Bumble Bees, using mapping techniques and future...
Social Network Analysis of the Environmental Justice and Climate Justice Community Active in Climate Adaptation and Conservation: George Mason University
The purpose of this project is to develop and test a SNA methodology for the national and regional CASCs to identify, map, and measure relationship patterns among organizations engaging in environmental and climate justice work related to climate adaptation and conservation. The planned deliverables of this project are designed to support the CASCs, resource managers, restoration...
Social Network Analysis of the Environmental Justice and Climate Justice Community Active in Climate Adaptation and Conservation: University of Colorado
This research will expand the future impact of CASC research via the potential for increased, targeted work with stakeholders, managers, and rightsholders in the future by identifying thematic areas and key partners with whom the CASCs can work right now, as well as how to sustain those relationships moving forward. Findings from this research will also support USGS, CASC network, and...
Social-Ecological Vulnerability in Human Communities Surrounding Large Protected Areas in the Southeast
Project Overview Rural communities near large, protected areas, such as national parks, face a complex interplay of environmental risks and benefits from nature. As climate and land-use changes intensify, these environmental risks may grow, potentially reducing the benefits from nature that these communities currently enjoy. Researchers supported by this Southeast CASC project will...
Support of State Wildlife Action Plan Revisions in the North Central Region
As part of the State Wildlife Grant Fund, states are required to submit State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs) every 10 years detailing habitats, species, and conservation plans. However, incorporating climate change in SWAPs isn’t required and capacity to do so is limited at most state agencies, resulting in varied consideration of climate change impacts. In support of the revisions to...
Synthesis and Tools for Climate Adaptation in the Southeast and US Caribbean
Project Overview Managers in the Southeast and US Caribbean face challenges accessing, interpreting, and using climate adaptation information, especially under tight decision-making timelines. Through this Southeast CASC project, researchers will co-produce a synthesis of regional climate adaptation science, identify information gaps, and improve access to actionable climate information...
The Role of Phenotypic Plasticity in the Adaptive Capacity of Midwestern Fish and Wildlife
Virtually all species are experiencing the effects of modern climate change. Climate-induced extinction rates are accelerating, and up to one-sixth of species are predicted to go extinct by the end of this century. Given the unprecedented rate of modern climate change, species will be increasingly unable to shift in lockstep with emerging climate spaces, and as a result, phenotypic...
Transforming Community Climate Adaption Through Indigenous Place-based Connection
Project Overview Sea-level rise, stronger storms, and coral reef bleaching events occurring with climate change threaten infrastructure, livelihoods, and cultural practices in Hawai'i. Researchers supported by this Pacific Islands CASC project will integrate Indigenous Knowledge and scientific research to co-produce climate adaptation strategies and conservation guidance for the...
Using Historical Data to Track Long Term Climate Impacted Trends and Resilience in Atoll Landscapes and Biodiversity
Project Overview Atolls in the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans are experiencing significant changes to their landscapes and biodiversity due to climate change. Researchers supported by this Pacific Islands CASC will use historical data to study a 50+ year window of change in both islet size and the occurrence of lizard species. This work will better inform lizard distribution in light...
Developing science syntheses to facilitate climate-informed land management decisions and NEPA analyses on rangelands in the sagebrush biome
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal public land managers to assess potential environmental impacts of proposed actions. The USGS, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Colorado State University, and North Central Climate Adaptation Science Center are working together to develop science syntheses that can facilitate considerations of climate change in...
Soil-climate for Managing Sagebrush Ecosystems
Soil-climate describes the temperature and moisture conditions important for plant growth and function. Soil condition patterns determine which vegetation is most abundant, thus controlling which habitats, invasive species, fuels, and economic activities are present in a region. Here, we use a model to simulate the vertical movement of water in a soil profile to provide insights into landscape...