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 multiple State Wildlife Action Plans in the North Centra region, the North Central CASC is providing resources, synthesis, and case-studies to incorporate how climate change is relevant to wildlife and habitat conservation. The North Central CASC aims to provide concise information of available science describing how climate change is impacting state-specific species and habitats of concern, and the types of management actions that may support positive outcomes for wildlife and habitats.  

For some states, case studies provide relatable and relevant examples of how management practices and priorities might consider both direct and indirect climate change impacts. Specifically, the project team is collaborating with state agencies in North Dakota, Colorado, and Wyoming to produce SWAP relevant products that will inform species and habitat management priorities and plans outlined within the State Wildlife Action Plan revisions.