Climate change is expected to increase the intensity and frequency of drought in the U.S., leading to potentially harmful ecological impacts. The uncertain and relatively rapid changes to precipitation patterns pose a significant challenge to managers and decision-makers. In addition to having negative social and economic implications, long periods without rainfall can alter ecosystems, thereby threatening fish and wildlife species.
The term “ecological drought” emphasizes the environmental consequences of future droughts. While it is known that ecological drought places multiple stresses on the environment, many of the specific impacts are not fully understood. To address this need, researchers are working to synthesize knowledge on the impacts of ecological drought across the country and to develop tools and products that are useful for decision making.
A series of eight workshops aimed at synthesizing our existing knowledge of the ecological impacts of drought are planned for each of the eight Department of Interior Climate Science Centers. These workshops will culminate in a national synthesis describing the state of our knowledge of ecological drought. Additionally, a group of scientists from the University of Maryland’s Integration and Application Network (IAN) – a group specializing in science communication – will develop related communication products that effectively deliver the results to stakeholders.
These regional drought syntheses represent a significant step towards addressing the challenges mangers face in coping with the impacts of drought. Contributing to better informed drought management plans that protect ecosystems and the critical services that they provide is essential for conserving resources vulnerable to climate change impacts.
