River Rally Climate Change Track

This year's River Rally featured an entire track of workshops aimed at helping grassroots river and watershed groups address climate change in their communities. A total of seven informative workshops covering a wide range of topics were held during the three days we spent in Baltimore. See below for a description of each workshop and links to relevant presentations or materials.

The Water-Energy-Carbon Connection
Level: Introductory
Water, energy and climate change are inextricably linked. This workshop explores key concepts of the water-energy-carbon nexus and what it means for river and watershed groups. Participants will learn about the water embedded in different energy sources, the carbon footprint of different water uses, and how to utilize these principles at the community level. Tools will be presented to help individuals assess the energy intensity of their water supplies and determine the potential to reduce carbon emissions through water efficiency and other management strategies. This workshop is designed for people interested in reducing water-related energy demands and addressing climate change through water conservation, efficiency, reuse and low impact development.
Presenters: Bevan Griffiths-Sattenspiel, River Network and Heather Cooley, Pacific Institute

Water-Energy-Carbon Connection: Part I & II

For more information on this workshop, check out River Network and Pacific Institute Share Water-Energy Tools at River Rally

21st Century Water : Building the Transformation
Level: Introductory
The workshop models the multi-sectoral partnership necessary to bring about a water paradigm shift. Panelists(consulting engineers, builders, chemists, environmentalists)and participants will look at what is being done around the US and globe,locking on a two phase action plan: immediate next steps; and a discussion of longer term targets. Presenters: Paul Schwartz, Clean Water Action & Valerie Nelson

Opportunity or Crisis: Climate Change Adaptation
Level: Introductory
Adaptation is the notion that we need to plan for climate change impacts that are already underway and can no longer be avoided. This interactive workshop will: explain adaptation; give guiding principles and adaptation strategies; and engage participants in mock planning groups to integrate adaptation into specific resource planning processes. Presenter: Joan Clayburgh, Sierra Nevada Alliance

Opportunity or Crisis: Climate Change Adaptation

Water Efficiency=Water Supply, not Dams
Level: Intermediate
Water quantity is as important to a river's health as water quality. Without water there would be no river. Through this workshop, participants will learn about proven and cost-effective water efficiency policies/programs to effectively make the case for water efficiency over dams as the best source of water supply. Presenter: Jenny Hoffner, American Rivers

Water Efficiency=Water Supply Not Dams

Planning for Water-Wise Development
Level: Introductory
Poorly planned land development degrades our waters. But what is good growth or development from a watershed perspective? Join this interactive workshop to explore watershed friendly land use planning and policy, good development patterns, and site design strategies that are water-wise. Presenter: Patricia Hickson, Sierra Nevada Alliance

Climate Change Statements for Watershed Organizations
Level: Introductory
What is your watershed organization doing to combat climate change? Probably more than you think! Learn how common watershed stewardship practices help not only to prevent global warming, but also to adapt to the inevitable effects of climate change. Participants will complete a draft Climate Change Statement for their organizations. Presenter: Jared Bartley, Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District

Building Community Response to Climate Issues
Level: Intermediate
Description of workshop: The National Wildlife Federation has led Al Gore's initiative to train thousands of people to teach others about the climate crisis. This session will prepare local watershed leaders to begin the watershed-level conversations they need to respond to climate change and help communities adapt to those changes. Presenter: Steve Malloch, National Wildlife Federation

Climate Resilient Communities: Preparing People and Wildlife for the Climate Challenges of Today and Tomorrow