The Cowichan Valley Regional District has launched a new website for residents to use as a tool to combat the impacts of climate change, and find current information about drought conditions and water-use restrictions across the region.
Formerly known as the New Normal, www.CowichanAdapts.ca is an important resource for residents to access information about climate change, a global issue that is impacting B.C. communities at a local level.
With changing climatic conditions like hotter and drier summers, wetter winters, and more intensive storms comes the increased likelihood of impacts including prolonged heat waves, wildfires, droughts, and flooding.
“The impacts of drought, flood, extreme heat, landslides and storm events are upon us, and very few residents of the Cowichan region have not been impacted by our changing climate in recent years,” said Aaron Stone, chair of the Cowichan Valley Regional District.
“The integrity of our valuable ecosystems are threatened. Public health issues are on the rise. Our forestry, tourism and fishing sectors are becoming jeopardized, and the risk of damage to people, property and infrastructure is higher than ever. The information provided through the Cowichan Adapts website is extremely pertinent as we all work together to establish a culture of climate action.”
The CVRD and climate adaptation partners have developed a regional climate adaptation strategy which includes local solutions to help residents prepare. The climate-change adaptation strategy and implementation framework focus on activities that the CVRD and its partner will undertake to improve built infrastructure, enhance health and emergency preparedness systems, enable green economic growth, and preserve local biodiversity.
Residents, businesses, and property owners also have a responsibility to prepare for various climate risks.
Understanding the risks helps residents to mitigate potential impacts on private lands, increases personal safety, and prepares people to respond quickly in the event of an emergency.
Residents are encouraged to visit and bookmark the new Cowichan Adapts website for easy access to critical information.
