The North Central Climate Science Center funded research activities in order to provide pertinent climate information to natural resource managers in our region to evaluate impacts of climatic changes and to develop strategies to respond to changes affecting their natural and cultural resources.  These funded activities provided improved past and current climate data sets, such as the high resolution temperature data, regional reconstruction. In addition, we have developed climate information from the latest international climate projections. We used this information and additional climate information to evaluate and assess impacts on ecosystem and natural resources. Ecosystem responses were studied across the region and included examples from controls on sagebrush establishment, whitebark pine vulnerability to climate change, grassland dynamics in mountain and prairie areas, and changes in water dynamics affecting water fowl in the prairie pothole area. 

Adaptation research efforts and development of strategies with various natural resource managers from federal, state, and Native American communities were carried out. A major focus on drought was defined and the Drought Risk and Adaptation in the Interior (DRAI) research efforts was developed under this funding. We used survey and interviews to gain insights in how various climate changes, especially those related to drought conditions, have been affecting their management practices. This information was important in guiding further research with our management communities related to what climate information would be useful, what impacts are being observed or of concern to these management entities, and what pathways are open to meet changes.

Our research and engagement activities were generated in partnership with National Park Service managers, Native American leaders, and groups working with various non-governmental organizations, such as The Nature Conservancy. In addition, information on climate changes and impacts were incorporated in regional assessment efforts for the Colorado Vulnerability Study.