Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan

Developed through in-depth collaboration with community members, staff, Council, and stakeholders, this ‘made in High River, for High River’ Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan will serve as a guide and equip the Town with measures to strengthen resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Scope

Community-wide.

Risks

89 risks received a score of medium and above.

7 climate hazards – Drought, High Water Events, Wildfires, Extreme Heat, Short duration high intensity rainfall, Heavy snowfall, Severe storms (hail and tornadoes).

Drought, high water events, wildfire, and extreme heat pose the greatest risks (these four hazards were the focus of developing and prioritizing adaptation measures).

Actions

55 actions.

The plan includes Foundational Measures (adaptation measures that are designed to address multiple Town themes and climate hazards), and climate hazard-specific adaptation measures for drought, high water events, extreme heat, and wildfire. Short-term, medium-term, and long-term actions are provided, along with the Department responsible for leading implementation of the action.

The plan prioritizes actions which are low cost, implementable in the short term, within the capacity of the responsible department, align with Council prioritize, and are focused on improving existing service offerings.

Community Engagement

In depth stakeholder and community engagement through open houses, classroom workshops, consultation and all municipal divisions, and the creation of a Task Force (community members, Councillors, staff members) to guide the direction the project.

Implementation

Implementation timeline and lead department are provided for adaptation measures. Measures will be reviewed and integrated into each department’s annual project planning process.