The National Wildlife Federation

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Climate-Smart Conservation Guide

Climate change already is having significant impacts on the nation’s species and ecosystems, and these effects are projected to increase considerably over time. How should we prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change on wildlife and their habitat? What should we be doing differently in light of these climatic shifts, and what actions continue to make sense?

Each conservation challenge is unique and there are no one-size-fits-all solutions to climate adaptation. Instead, we need thoughtfully crafted adaptation strategies that take into account not only likely climatic shifts and impacts, but the specifics of the ecological resources, existing stresses and threats, and opportunities for meaningful action. Climate-Smart Conservation: Putting Adaptation Principles into Action is intended to help managers and policymakers put general climate adaptation principles into practice. Whether one already is focused on adaptation, or just beginning to think about climate change, this guide is designed to help you take the next step in making your conservation efforts climate smart.

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Where We Work

More than one-third of U.S. fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive.

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