Managing Western Washington Wildfire Risk in a Changing Climate

Puget Sound Climate Preparedness Collaborative, Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center, Tulalip Tribes
Posted on: 10/10/2019 - Updated on: 2/27/2020

Posted by

CAKE Team

Published

Abstract

In recent years, concern has risen among western Washington communities about climate change and the impacts of increased wildfire risk in the region. This concern is motivated by large wildfires in eastern Washington and California, smoke events in western Washington, and growing evidence that changes in the climate are increasing the likelihood of wildfire in the Pacific Northwest.

To help address these questions, the Puget Sound Climate Preparedness Collaborative, Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center, the Tulalip Tribes, and the University of Washington Climate Impacts Group, co-hosted a one-day workshop on December 3rd, 2018 titled Managing Western Washington Wildfire Risk in a Changing Climate.

This workshop provided an opportunity to share what is currently known, (and unknown), about climate change impacts on wildfire risk west of the Cascades and to discuss strategies that may help reduce this risk. Workshop participants identified research and coordination needs for managing westside fire risk. The workshop served as an opportunity for participants to engage in peer-to-peer learning, networking, and a cross-disciplinary exchange of knowledge and ideas regarding approaches to preparing for wildfire.

Keywords

Target Climate Changes and Impacts
Type of Adaptation Action/Strategy