Prioritize and Plan
Prioritization can be based on a number of factors. Projects could be prioritized by cost, where many smaller projects could be completed over time, or one large project could be completed. It’s important to do research on partner organizations because there could be opportunities to work with local organizations to collaborate on projects, reducing the cost to your organization. Additionally, it’s important to remember that some recommendations could include policy changes or recommendations, which costs time to implement. Planning for the long term future may be more costly in the short-term, but beneficial in the long term.
How to assess priority projects
Cost
Look at the economic costs and the ecosystem costs. One company that does climate change economic valuations is the Eastern Research Group. For example, check out this study, Support for the Gulf of Mexico Regional Ecosystem Strategy.
Benefits
What are the co-benefits? Who benefits?
Capacity
How many staff do you have? How much funding have you been awarded? What is the timeline? Does the public depend on this project?
How is success defined?
Observations and anecdotal data are just as important as quantitative information from the "desk audit". This is due to the fact that tools may not be updated or represent recent and noticeable impacts. Land managers and stakeholders will be the most familiar with on-site climate impacts and changes, which is why site visits and conversations are an essential part of the planning process. Defining success in the short and long term will allow a team to identify which adaptation options may fit the project goals in the most effective way.
Follow this link for more information on prioritizing and planning projects, and view the links below for case studies and tools from the region.
In this case study, learn about how the Maryland Department of Natural Resources used the Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM) to identify high-priority conservation areas that allow for wetland migration and future wildlife habitat. This example uses data and mapping tools - quantitative data and set criteria to prioritize resilience project areas.
Learn how the Town of Nag's Head in North Carolina's Outer Banks engaged town managers and residents to identify community climate priorities.
Getting to Resilience
Use the Getting to Resilience tool created by NJ to link planning, adaptation, and mitigation opportunities. It's a self assessment that puts communities first in taking control of their climate resilience.
Resilient NJ
Resilient NJ offers an example of developing climate resilience planning strategies with local communities. It is a toolkit that not only provides tools and resources, but allows users to track their progress.
Planning Framework for a Climate-Resilient Economy
The EPA's Planning Framework for a Climate-Resilient Economy provides flexible planning steps. In partnership with Rhode Island, the EPA tested and adapted the recommended strategies to reflect community engagement and realistic resilience expectations.
