Climate Risk Assessment & Adaptation Plan

This Plan provides a climate resilience and adaptation roadmap for the Pincher Creek region. It was developed following a participatory approach to climate adaptation planning and supports the Town and Municipal District (MD) of Pincher Creek to better understand the climate change risks facing residents, the economy, natural environment, and infrastructure in the region, and outlines a robust plan to adapt to these risks. Implementation of this Plan has tremendous potential to make the Pincher Creek region, economy and way of life more resilient to weather disruptions and stress, and healthier and safer for residents, now and in the future.

Scope

Focuses on consequences arising from climate-related impacts that affect built and natural assets and/or aspects of economy and well-being within the geographical boundaries of the MD of Pincher Creek under projected climate conditions anticipated to occur by the 2070s in a high emissions scenario.

Identifies actions that can be implemented in the next 10 years.

Risks

High priority risks – River and creek flooding, Wildfire, Drought, Water Shortage, Extreme Heat, Loss of Winter Recreation, Wildfire Smoke

Opportunities

Longer agricultural growing season with potential for new crop types, longer construction season, longer summer recreation season with potential improvements to resident quality of life and well being.

Opportunities were not included in the formal risk assessment process, although the adaptation actions do take advantage of the potential climate opportunities.

Actions

35 recommended climate adaptation actions organized according to five themes (Health & Wellbeing, Disaster Resilience, Infrastructure, Parks & Environment, and Economy) and corresponding goals.

Social Equity

The plan was developed via engagement and collaboration with the Piikani Nation Lands Department and focuses on climate resilience for communities across the region.

Community Engagement

The plan was developed in collaboration with neighbouring Piikani Nation. Community engagement throughout plan development included a community survey; staff risk assessment session; engagement sessions with the MD and Town of Pincher Creek, Piikani Nation, and other regional stakeholders; and an open house for public feedback on the results of the plan.