Vermont climate assessment: considering Vermont’s future in a changing climate

This document is the first comprehensive report, using data collected from across the state, of the changes in Vermont’s climate and the impact of those changes on lives and livelihoods. It presents state-level efforts to downscale global climate models, combining them with local knowledge and data. It highlights the impacts across many sectors that may be challenged under future climate change, as well as community level vulnerabilities. It is intended for scientists, practitioners and policy makers.

The report calls for immediate strategic planning to sustain the social, economic and environmental fabric of Vermont. It is presented as the first state-scale climate assessment in the country and speaks directly to the impacts of climate change as they pertain to rural towns, cities and communities, including impacts on Vermont tourism and recreation, agriculture, natural resources and energy.