Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy brought the reality of climate change closer to home. Although our immediate area missed the worst impact of these storms, neighboring counties in New York State have suffered the effects of devastating flooding, including loss of life and extraordinary costs associated with these storms and their aftermath.

Scientists predict we will continue to experience warmer temperatures and more violent storms. These changes are likely to have profound long-term impacts on our way of life. Areas once available for farming or building will be prone to flooding. Our homes will need to be designed for higher winds and temperature extremes. Our emergency crews will need new equipment and different approaches. These are only a few of the many challenges we will confront as we learn to adapt to climate change.

Join us for a forum to discuss these issues—“Stormy Weather: Local Climate Change in the Era of Sandy and Irene.” Jointly sponsored by Sustainable Saratoga, the League of Women Voters of Saratoga County, and Skidmore College’s Environmental Action Club, this forum will address people’s concerns about the ways in which climate change may affect our region, with an emphasis on what we can do to reduce risks and adapt to climate challenges.

When : Thursday, April 25, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Where : Davis Auditorium, Palamountain Hall, Skidmore College

Panelists:

Mark Lowery, Climate Policy Analyst, Office of Climate Change, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Gary Kleppel, Professor of Biological Sciences; Director of Biodiversity, Conservation & Policy at SUNY Albany; member of Sen. Gillibrand’s Agricultural Working Group; active farmer

Jodi Smits Anderson, architect; Director of Sustainability at the NYS Dormitory Authority; board member, US Green Building Council

Rayna Caldwell, Chair, Sustainable Saratoga

Please join us for this informative presentation and discussion. Questions from the audience will be encouraged.