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Ecology and Vulnerability
(Not habitat-specific)

Image
Map of Massachusetts

Landscapes across Massachusetts are undergoing stresses from climate change.  

Some adaptation actions that we can take can benefit all habitats and are not habitat-specific. See these adaptations to build awareness, increase ecological resilience, and improve community preparedness.

(Map imagery from the USGS National Land Cover Database http://www.mrlc.gov/nlcd2011.php)

 

Stressors
Aquatic connectivity loss (roads and dams)
Temperature changes
Precipitation changes
Changes in hydrology
Changes in winter
Sea level rise
Storms and floods
Change in timing of seasons
Invasive plants and animals
Pests and diseases
Development and habitat loss
Terrestrial connectivity loss (roads and development)

Related Adaptation Strategies and Actions

Use threshold-based adaptive management: Incorporate ecological thresholds to guide coastal protection and restoration
Adapt or update municipal plans: Master Plans
Adapt or update municipal plans: Transportation Improvement Plans
Adapt or update municipal plans: Hazard Mitigation Plans
Manage floodwater: Create a floodable park or open space
Adapt or update municipal plans: Create a Climate Action Plan
Adapt or update municipal plans: Open Space Plans
Communicate effectively about your work: Learn how to talk about climate change
Conservation restriction purposes: Consider climate change impacts
Learn from climate data: Explore regional downscaled climate data

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