Drought is a natural and recurring feature of climate, which can have significant economic, social, and environmental impacts. Some regions are projected to experience drought more often in the future under a changing climate.
To promote stronger drought resilience on federal lands, the National Drought Resilience Partnership was initiated in 2016. As a part of this effort, the U.S. Forest Service hosted workshops across the country during the spring of 2017. Workshop participants increased their understanding and capacity to address the impacts of drought on forest and rangeland resources, thus informing future land management, restoration, and adaptation efforts.
During the workshops, scientists shared cutting-edge information about drought's effects on hydrology and aquatic ecosystems, forest vegetation, rangeland vegetation and soils, carbon storage, recreation, infrastructure, and water rights. Workshop participants then prioritized each of these resource areas' vulnerabilities to drought, and discussed management strategies for adapting to future drought conditions. Summaries of these workshop proceedings, workgroup recommendations, and supporting documentation are available.
Click below on the U.S. Forest Service region of interest to view a brief summary of the presentations and work-group sessions.