Adapting To Climate Change

Climate change, Sustainable Agriculture, NRM, Resilience

Adapting To Climate Change

Climate change, Sustainable Agriculture, NRM, Resilience

Building our Future -

LLCI017-008

The issue

Corowa District Landcare (CDL) recognises the need to build community resilience to the effects of climate change stress factors that face the Murray Region, now and in the future.

As an inland community & ecosystem, the region relies on freshwater and ground water and will be affected by changing rainfall patterns and extreme weather events. These factors are also likely to impact on many local native species. Hotter and drier summers could lead to increased fire risk and food security issues such as declines in crop yields and livestock production.  These issues can also impact local community on a societal level, including accelerated population decline and degradation of mental health.

The solution

Responding to these factors, and previous climate projects, prioritised building community resilience to a changing climate. Supported by Murray Local Land Services, NSW Office of Environment & Heritage, & funding from the National Landcare Program, hosted four regional events in 2017-2018: 

“Climate Ready, farming for today & tomorrow” - community awareness workshop on the expected effects of climate change in a local context; mindful of the bigger picture. Explored positive actions, preparedness for extreme climate events, and warmer climate farm planning.

“River & Wetland Restoration in an Uncertain Climate” – Presentation on riparian & wetland restoration, emphasising the benefits of planting; including carbon capture, reducing storm/flood erosion and providing shade.

“If it Doesn’t Rain it Pours, Coping with Extreme Weather” – workshop building community resilience to climate change; supporting community members, such as young farming families, reinforcing community relationships, recovery, and mental health.

"Managing Biodiversity in a Changing Climate" - 2017 NSW Landcare & Local Land Services Conference presentations focusing on the impacts of climate change and its rationale; specifically  local threatened species, vegetation management & connecting corridors. Additionally, highlighting traditional Land Management in a changing climate.

 

The impact

By raising awareness of climate change impacts and discussing resilience and adaptation options, many farmers and community members in the Murray Region will be better prepared in the long term because they have an idea of what to expect and how to manage changes appropriately. This includes improved farm management practices, awareness of the benefits of riparian & wetland restoration, managing native vegetation in order to preserve and protect native and threatened species. This project has also assisted in building community relationships and a chance for them to share what they’ve been experiencing.

Key facts

  • Raising awareness of climate change impacts
  • Resilience and adaptation in a changing climate

Project Partners