Preparing for climate impacts in California

Imperial Valley News (California): Given the serious threat of sea level rise to California’s water supply and coastal resources and the impact it would have on our state’s economy, population and natural resources, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued an Executive Order (EO) S-13-08 to enhance the state’s management of climate impacts from sea level rise, increased temperatures, shifting precipitation and extreme weather events.

“We have to adapt the way we work and plan in order to manage the impacts and challenges that California and our entire planet face from climate change,” Governor Schwarzenegger said. “Given the serious threat of sea level rise to California’s water supply, population and our economy, it’s critically important that we make sure the state is prepared when heavy rains cause flooding and the potential for sea level rise increases in future years."

There are four key actions in the EO including: (1) initiate California’s first statewide climate change adaptation strategy that will assess the state’s expected climate change impacts, identify where California is most vulnerable and recommend climate adaptation policies by early 2009; (2) request the National Academy of Science establish an expert panel to report on sea level rise impacts in California to inform state planning and development efforts; (3) issue interim guidance to state agencies for how to plan for sea level rise in designated coastal and floodplain areas for new projects; and (4) initiate a report on critical existing and planned infrastructure projects vulnerable to sea level rise.

One key benefit that the EO will facilitate is California’s first comprehensive climate adaptation strategy. This effort will improve coordination within state government and adapt the way work so that better planning can more effectively address climate impacts to human health, the environment, the state’s water supply and the economy….