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TRANSCRIPT
Choosing What to Protect in the Face of Climate Change
Maine Land Conservation Conference
May 1, 2010
We have an exceptional opportunity to conserve an ecologically functional landscape
However, our success will depend on:
1. Establishing scientifically supported statewide priorities
2. Translating priorities for implementation by local conservation partners (land trusts, municipalities, sister agencies)
3. Facilitating on the ground action at the local level
Climate change hasn’t altered our approach, it has simply made it more urgent
Maine’s Comprehensive Maine’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Wildlife Conservation Strategy Strategy
(Wildlife Action Plan)(Wildlife Action Plan)
Identifies 213 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN).
Encouraging habitat conservation at the local level is likely our most promising tool.
Therefore, BwH is the foundation of SWAP.
21 key habitat types, and 140 Focus Areas of Statewide Ecological Significance
Contents of SWAP Identifies:Priority habitat types
Priority species
Strategies for conserving each
This data helps in identifying projects locally that respond to state priorities
Focus Areas of Statewide Ecological Significance
Highlight intact landscapes with rich biodiversity and inform strategic conservation investments
Mt Agamenticus
Kennebunk Plains/Wells Barren
Scarborough Marsh
Bold Coast
Unity Wetlands
Merrymeeting Bay
St. John River
Tumbledown Mtn to Mt Blue
Crystal Bog
Androscoggin Lake
Etc…
- Maine Wildlife Action Plan
What about climate change?
Steps for incorporating Climate Change into SWAP:
1. Launch on-line Species Vulnerability Assessment that evaluates vulnerability based on:
a. Exposure to stressors
b. Sensitivity to stressors
c. Capacity to adapt to stressors
d. Include mechanism to also rank vulnerability of habitat and natural community types
2. Evaluate expert feedback and update SGCN list and species status
3. Update BwH outreach materials, tools, and technical assistance
Hand off to AW to discuss exposure doc.
AC to discuss survey
As we take on strategic conservation planning, or update our existing plans, how can we address climate change adaptation?
• Areas to our south are going to become less habitable
• Telecommuting and virtual offices will become more prevalent
• This is the critical time to plan for a resilient landscape
Strategic conservation planning has never been more important
The Beginning with Habitat model provides a good starting point for “saving the stage”
Water Resources and Riparian Habitat
High Value Plant and Animal Habitats
Unfragmented Habitat Blocks
Low-lying undeveloped uplands adjacent to coastal wetlands (beaches, mudflats, saltmarshes, etc.)
Undeveloped areas that serve as landscape scale habitat connections
Climate change adaptation will require a ‘stage’ capable of supporting an uncertain cast of players
Unusual soil types Unusual geologic conditions
A variety of topographic conditions