My first Publication 1 | Page 15

The health of wildlife, people, and the habitats they rely on are all interconnected. Our natural lands provide us with food, clean our water, and filter our air.

Effects on one part on an ecosystem affectother parts over time, and climate change is already altering many wildlife habitats vital to New England.

Woods & Forests

Warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are driving forests northward, to higher elevation, or to less optimal soil. Many tree species may lose their advantage over species found farther south.

Oceans

Warmer temperatures, rising sea levels, and more acidic waters threaten our world’s most prominent ecosystem. Marine species, birds, and the people that rely on the ocean are feeling the effects.

Rivers, Lakes, Ponds, & Wetlands

Rising temperatures, changing seasonal precipitation, and stronger storms create conditions that can severely compromise the health of water bodies. Cold water species are losing their advantage to warm water species. Lakes may become stagnant more frequently and develop algal blooms, while stronger storms lead to more flooding and erosion.

Urban & Suburban

In addition to climate change, urban and suburban areas face challenges of over development and environmental contamination—risks that compound one another.

Rising temperatures increase the risk of extreme heat waves, stronger storms can lead to more frequent flooding and water quality issues, and rising sea levels place infrastructure at risk.