AGRICULTURE +

NATURAL RESOURCES

Climate change may also present a potential opportunity for agriculture with a longer growing season, though producers may be limited by water availability and limited adaptive capacity.

Oregon’s $48.5B agriculture industry (2015) is a cornerstone of the state’s economy.

Agriculture

By mid-century in the higher emissions scenario, parts of western Oregon will see a lengthening of the growing season by about two months, and the rest of the state would see an increase of about a month. Warmth will arrive earlier in the spring and last longer in fall. Though some crops may thrive in a longer growing season, concerns about the incidence of pests and weeds, reduced crop quality, and increased irrigation demand may hamper production.

Forests may experience drought stress due to lower soil moisture in the summer, and timber production can be affected. The challenges are great, but there are opportunities to adapt to a rapidly changing Oregon.

Both the natural resource commodity sector and the

outdoor recreation industry are sensitive to short - and

long-term climate variability.

Get Involved

Adaptive capacity is not equal across and within communities and sectors. However, careful management of natural resources can help reduce the climate risks that the natural resources economy faces. Such management includes creating resilient agro-ecosystems, building more robust water markets, and managing forests while considering natural resources and wildfire prevention. Reducing barriers for socioeconomic groups most affected by climate change can take the form of rules and policy meant to limit the exposure of these groups to fire and heat.

There is a need to build community capacity and leadership in frontline communities to participate in the processes of climate-related decisions. Additionally, modernizing crucial infrastructure (bridges, roads, buildings, and culverts) may mitigate climate risk and build resilience into systems.

“ If climate change means wetter conditions, I would be able to adapt without much problem. If it does get drier, I would likely have to get a job off the farm”

- Bill Jepsen, Farmer