Climate Assessment Report

Water

Key Messages

• Changes in precipitation impacting water availability intersect multiple issues, including energy, health, agriculture, and more.
• Nebraska’s residents and agriculture sector rely heavily on the state’s groundwater resources for irrigation and drinking water.
• If appropriately managed, groundwater will continue to be Nebraska’s best resource for resiliency against future climate change.
• Climate change will have complex impacts on Nebraska’s water, likely affecting both groundwater and surface water quantity and quality. These impacts will ripple throughout Nebraska’s economy, communities, and environment.
• With climate change, irrigation water demand will likely increase as the growing season becomes longer and the rate of evapotranspiration increases.
• At the state level, the trends in groundwater-level changes tend to follow the trends in precipitation.
• Drought impacts on Nebraska’s groundwater and surface water may be more severe as the climate warms.

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy W1 Protect and restore water resource ecosystem functions and values

Protection of existing water resources provides a proactive, cost-effective way to maintain ecosystem functions and values, including groundwater recharge, filtration, and flood storage capacity. In particular, wetlands protection is integral to this process, given the challenges of locating suitable sites for replacement wetlands that replicate their functions and values. Restoration of functions and values of degraded water resources offers the opportunity to restore groundwater recharge, filtration, and flood storage capacity while also realizing co-benefits such as habitat creation.

Actions

W1-1: Review and update Natural Resource District rules to align with best practices for water resource protection from other states.

W1-2: Ensure no net loss of wetland area.

W1-3: Increase grant opportunities for climate change adaptation projects and prioritize the funding of projects that incorporate climate change impacts in project design and implementation.

W1-4: Develop an assistance program to help property owners put lands into conservation easements to retain ecosystem services.

W1-5: Provide funding and technical assistance for green infrastructure, best management practices, and nature-based adaptation.

X1-1: AAA New Action

X1-1: AAA New Action

W1-6: Protect and restore lake, river, stream, and wetland buffers.

W1-7: Protect and restore deep pools in streams for cool water aquatic life (refugia).

W1-8: Expand water conservation education and outreach programs and materials to address audience-specific interests related to topics such as water conservation, water quality, and recreation.

W1-9: Improve water management to sustain aquatic ecosystems.

W1-10: Fund and enhance stream and lake quantity and quality monitoring.

W1-11: Implement sustainable farming practices such as those described in Table SR 8 to improve water quality and preserve water quantity.

W1-12: Plant native landscape species that require less irrigation (i.e. turf conversion).

W1-13: Direct downspouts to rain gardens and/or vegetated areas so that stormwater runoff is intercepted and allowed to infiltrate into the groundwater system.

W1-14: Incorporate local knowledge into local conservation and restoration efforts.

Strategy W2 Adaptively manage groundwater

Nebraska relies heavily on its groundwater resources for agricultural irrigation and drinking water. To date, steps, including local regulation and restrictions on high-capacity wells, are helping to slow decreasing groundwater levels. Despite current human intervention to move toward a more sustainable groundwater balance, changes in high and low precipitation years will complicate efforts to reach this balance. Efforts will be required to continue conserving water, especially in dry years, and aid in the recharge of groundwater in wet years.

Actions

W2-1: Work with water compact members to develop strategic pathways for future water allocations.

W2-2: Develop a statewide strategy for groundwater recharge.

W2-3: NRDs adaptively manage water pumping regulations.

W2-4: Continue groundwater monitoring.

W2-5: Proactively adjust water supply management practices and programs to account for climate change impacts to both water supply availability and source water quality.

W2-6: Promote nature-based solutions, such as restoring riparian habitats and wetlands, to enhance groundwater recharge and improve water quality.

W2-7: Expand water conservation education and outreach programs and materials to address audience specific interests related to topics such as water conservation, water quality, and recreation.

W2-8: Adopt a citywide policy promoting water recycling for non-potable uses.

W2-9: Implement sustainable farming practices such as those described in Chapter 8 Strategy #1 to improve water quality and preserve water quantity.

W2-10: Reduce excess nutrients in groundwater.

W2-11: Enhance groundwater recharge and storage by storing excess water during wet periods.

W2-12: Implement water conservation measures and improve irrigation efficiency in agriculture.

W2-13: Conserve potable (drinking) water.

W2-14: Consider installing rain barrels and watering gardens with rainwater.

Strategy W3 Prepare for increased occurrences of flood and drought conditions

Major flooding and drought events represent the extreme highs and lows of water that pose threats to property, economic activity, human health and well-being, infrastructure, recreation, and more. As natural processes are exacerbated by climate change, proactive efforts to adapt to these changing processes will be critical to reducing the state’s vulnerability and helping to manage resources needed in response to major events.

Actions

W3-1: Help regions improve preparation for drought.

W3-2: Prioritize investment in dam and levee repairs based on their potential hazard.

W3-3: Update floodplain mapping to account for projected increases in major flood events.

W3-4: Protect and restore water resources with the potential for high functions and values related to flood and drought mitigation.

W3-5: Promote water storage and management to hold and distribute water following large precipitation events.

W3-6: Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for larger communities to conduct flood risk/vulnerability assessments using projected rainfall conditions (i.e., redefine riverine flood hazard zones to match the projected expansion of flooding frequency and extent).

W3-7: Improve public education about the risks of developing in sensitive areas.

W3-8: Apply green infrastructure strategies and adopt green and complete street design standards.

W3-9: Maintain and restore wetlands.

W3-10: Require new development or redevelopment to capture and infiltrate the first 1 or 1.5 inches of rain.

W3-11: Restrict development in areas buffering water bodies or wetlands

W3-12: Acquire properties at risk of flooding, use the land for infiltration, and help the property owners resettle in the community.

W3-13: Improve the absorptive capacity of farmland through the encouragement and cost-sharing of agricultural best management practices.

W3-14: Improve the absorptive capacity of farmland through the encouragement and cost-sharing of agricultural best management practices.

W3-15: Convert turf to native, drought-tolerant native species.

Energy

Key Messages

• Energy-related emissions (fossil fuel burning for electricity, transportation, heat, steam, and fertilizer production) are Nebraska's leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions.
• Nebraskans consume energy directly (fuel and energy purchases) and indirectly (in products and services).  
• Reducing emissions can have a positive financial impact (reduced energy and fertilizer costs).
• Nebraskans should consider where their largest impacts from energy efficiency and fuel switching can be made at all levels. This includes residential (heating and cooling), commercial (heating and cooling), transportation (vehicles), business-level policy, local policy, state-level policy, and national policy.
• Emissions reduction goals should be compatible with reliability goals.  

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy E1 Accelerate decarbonization of Nebraska's energy systems

Decarbonizing Nebraska’s energy systems is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. Nebraska’s energy consumption significantly impacts climate change primarily through burning fossil fuels, accounting for 69% of the state’s total energy use. These emissions contribute to global warming and climate change. Additionally, burning fossil fuels releases air pollutants, including particulates, volatile organic compounds, and nitrogen oxides, which further degrade environmental quality. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources like wind, solar, and biofuels can lower emissions, improve air quality, and enhance public health. Additionally, decarbonization can lead to economic benefits by adopting more efficient technologies and creating new jobs in the renewable energy sector. Preparing for climate risks and extreme weather events is also essential to ensure the reliability and resilience of Nebraska’s energy infrastructure.

Actions

E1-1: Establish a State of Nebraska Electricity Renewable Energy Standard to support and align with existing public utility 100% clean energy goals.

E1-2: Increase state electricity procurement to 100% renewable by 2040.

E1-3: Adopt solar-ready and renewable-energy generation building code requirements.

E1-4: Investigate options for establishing a Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) for heating fuels.

E1-5: Study the feasibility of encouraging greater utility-scale renewable energy development by reducing property taxes on new renewable energy in Nebraska.

E1-6: Include non-energy benefits of low and zero emission energy generation in cost assessment requirements of public utility Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) and State of Nebraska capital planning.

E1-7: Finance programs, incentives, policies, and research for increased capture of the significant opportunity in Nebraska for renewable energy adoption.

E1-8: Update zoning codes to identify and address alternative energy systems and their use on private property.

E1-9: Coordinate and promote separate residential and commercial Solar Group Purchase and Electrification Group Purchase campaigns to reduce the cost of solar PV, solar thermal, and heat pump adoption through volume purchasing power and district-level planning

E1-10: Identify and deploy the next generation of electric grid technologies. (resource: https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/Next%20Generation%20Grid%20Technologies%20Report%20051222.pdf)

E1-11: Include non-energy benefits of low and zero emission energy generation in cost assessment of public utility Integrated Resource Planning (IRP).

E1-12: Explore the creation of a green hydrogen or an energy efficiency utility.

E1-13: Install solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal panels at your home or business and receive a 30% federal tax credit.

E1-14: If you don’t own your home (or if your home is not suitable for solar) support solar development by subscribing to community solar or purchasing renewable energy through your utility.

E1-15: Replace your business or home’s heating and cooling system and appliances like ranges, water heaters, and clothes dryers with energy efficient electric options like heat pumps.

Strategy E2 Accelerate energy efficiency improvements to buildings and industrial uses and processes

Increasing the energy efficiency of Nebraska’s energy systems is vital for adapting to climate change. Energy efficiency can improve the resilience of Nebraska’s energy systems during climate impacts like heat waves or extreme weather events through reduced energy demand, enhanced reliability, cost savings for reinvestment, and flexibility. Increased energy efficiency also lowers reliance on fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving air quality. Additionally, energy efficiency can lead to cost savings for consumers and businesses, making the energy system more resilient and sustainable. Efficient energy use also supports the integration of renewable energy sources, further reducing environmental impact and enhancing the reliability of the energy infrastructure in the face of extreme weather events and other climate-related challenges.

Actions

E2-1: Adopt and maintain state building codes to within one cycle of current best practices for energy efficiency.

E2-2: Establish an Energy Efficiency Resource Standard establishing annual energy efficiency savings program goals for utilities.

E2-3: Support the State of Nebraska agency and publicly funded projects that address deferred maintenance, energy efficiency, and alternative energy with the greatest potential for emissions reductions in the immediate future.

E2-4: Include non-energy energy efficiency benefits in public utility Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) cost assessment requirements and State of Nebraska capital planning.

E2-5: Expand energy efficiency programs for residential and commercial buildings.

E2-6: Explore the development of a Nebraska Energy Saving Mortgage to provide a tiered incentive encouraging the purchase and construction of highly efficient homes. Example; State of Colorado.

E2-7: Establish State of Nebraska Appliance Standards that set energy efficiency targets for appliances.

E2-8: Adopt and maintain building codes to within one cycle of current best practices for energy efficiency.

E2-9: Require projects receiving city financial incentives or support to be built to meet or exceed an electricity and heating renewable energy standard.

E2-10: Develop and expand meter-based incentive programs targeted at energy efficiency.

E2-11: Establish an energy reporting program, or "Energy Benchmarking," for homes and commercial buildings, including existing private buildings, existing public buildings, and new construction.

E2-12: Promote energy conservation and efficiency through outreach, communication, and community and public engagement.

E2-13: Advance the deployment of energy storage projects. Example Business, Household, and Individual Actions

E2-14: Conduct an energy audit on your business or home to identify energy efficiency and cost-saving improvements.

E2-15: Implement ongoing energy efficiency changes, such as using smart thermostats, adjusting your thermostat temperature to slightly warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter, using ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, and adopting other energy efficiency strategies recommended by your utility.

Strategy E3 Strengthen the energy sector's ability to handle climate-related disruptions, adapt to supply changes, and meet rising energy demand

Strengthening Nebraska's energy sector to handle climate-related disruptions, adapt to supply changes, and meet rising energy demand will enhance the state’s resilience. Preparedness for extreme weather and investing in resilient infrastructure improvements can minimize the impact of events such as heat waves, droughts, and floods. Diversifying energy sources, increasing flexibility in energy generation, and increasing energy storage ensure reliability amid supply changes, such as the retirement of coal and nuclear plants and the rise of natural gas, wind, and solar. Combined with energy efficiency improvements, these efforts can collectively build a robust energy system that can withstand disruptions, adapt to evolving conditions, and meet future needs.

Actions

E3-1: Collaborate with Nebraska Public Utilities to identify, pilot, and implement a variety of energy efficiency, load management, and distribution system operation methods to reduce peak demand

E3-2: Collaborate with Nebraska Public Utilities to identify, pilot, and implement a variety of backup power supplies, intelligent controls, smart analytics, microgrids, and distributed generation to better respond to disruptions.

E3-3: Establish an Energy Storage Standard establishing energy storage capacity deployment or procurement goals for utilities

E3-4: Include benefits of energy storage such as peak demand reduction, frequency regulation, energy arbitrage, increased resilience, reduced land use, and jobs creation in cost assessment requirements of public utility Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) and State of Nebraska capital planning.

E3-5: Support a wide variety of energy storage ownership, application, and business models through incentives and programs.

E3-6: Ensure that new or substantially modified jurisdictional electric transmission facilities are designed, built, and operated for resiliency regarding heavy precipitation and flooding, extreme temperature events, severe weather events, wildfires, and physical/cyber security threats.

E3-7: Develop energy storage programs for all customer types to reduce peak demand, support electric grid reliability, and improve the effectiveness of solar and other renewable energy options.

E3-8: Ensure equitable implementation of grid resilience actions by partnering with high-risk neighborhoods and non-governmental organizations to develop resilience hubs—community facilities that offer power and other services during times of need.

E3-9: Expand district heating, cooling, and microgrids through district-level planning and a potential requirement for new large buildings to study the costs and benefits of connection.

E3-10: Conducted a community-wide grid capacity, resilience, and conditions assessment, including recommendations identifying renewable energy capacities and potentials, including renewable energy backup.

E3-11: Identify and prioritize solar, energy storage, and microgrid backup power projects at mission-critical community facilities.

Ecosystems

Key Messages

• Change is driving rapid ecosystem transformations.
• Species changes and biodiversity loss are accelerating.
• Impacts on ecosystem services create risks and opportunities.

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy ES1 Enhance the resilience and adaptive capacity of ecosystems

Ecosystem transformation refers to significant and lasting changes in an ecosystem’s structure, function, and composition. Historically, this transformation has been driven by human alteration to the landscape (i.e., urbanization, industrialization, agricultural expansion), but more recently, it has been driven by climate change. Nebraska's ecosystems are experiencing and are expected to undergo significant transformations due to climate change. These changes affect the state's prairies, agricultural landscapes, wetlands, and riparian systems. This affects the state's wildlife and the migratory species that access Nebraska's landscapes on their way to critical habitats used for reproduction and overwintering. As the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project reports, much of the state's existing natural habitat and the biological diversity it supports reside on lands under private ownership.

Actions

ES1-1: Increase collaboration and communication.

ES1-2: Improve conservation programs and incentives.

ES1-3: Focus conservation on the best opportunities (i.e., restore and conserve natural ecosystems with an emphasis on native prairies and wetlands).

ES1-4: Promote management that is more compatible with conserving biological diversity (i.e., utilize the Resist-Accept-Direct (RAD) framework to guide adaptive ecosystem management).

ES1-5: Maintain and expand the network of public and private conservation lands.

ES1-6: In collaboration with the Nebraska Department of Education, seek to address important issues related to biological diversity in state education content standards—specifically, but not limited to, state science standards. Additionally, work with the Nebraska Department of Education to adopt and incorporate the Nebraska Environmental Literacy Plan. This plan seeks to develop environmentally literate students and ensure that all students, by the time they graduate high school, are knowledgeable about Nebraska’s natural resources and environmental issues and are willing to act on this knowledge to help conserve our natural legacy and solve our environmental problems.

ES1-7: Demonstrate success by establishing and promoting Natural Legacy Demonstration Sites across Nebraska.

ES1-8: Restore grassland systems with an emphasis on controlling woody plant encroachment, particularly eastern red cedar.

ES1-9: Support existing cooperatives, such as the Nebraska Invasive Species Project, with the intent to organize a diverse network of agencies and organizations to gather and share information about invasive species, new control measures, control efforts that are underway, distribution of invasive species, and funding issues. Collaboratively develop and widely distribute a list of all known invasive species that threaten the state’s biological diversity and develop best management practices that can be used to control or reduce the spread of those species.

ES1-10: Seek to remove or create bypass structures around dams and other impediments that restrict the natural movement of aquatic species.

ES1-11: Support progress toward sustainable development.

ES1-12: Collaborate with planning commissions, county commissions, and building associations to site new development to reduce fragmentation of existing natural communities.

ES1-13: Identify sites conducive to greenway development and provide resources and support to help communities engage in collaborative planning to develop long-term strategies that meet conservation, economic, and recreational goals (i.e. create a GIS layer that identifies priority areas that local units of government or NGOs can use to prioritize activities such as greenway development).

ES1-14: Support existing programs that promote the development of natural communities (e.g., prairies, wetlands, native woodlands) at schools, parks, government offices, housing developments, businesses, etc., that the public can use to learn about biological diversity.

ES1-15: Sponsor wildlife-related events (e.g., eagle viewing days, crane celebrations, hunter breakfasts, fishing tournaments) that have recreational, educational, and entertainment value and provide community economic benefits.

ES1-16: Work with partners, such as Cooperative Extension, to develop and conduct workshops for landowners, producers, community leaders, conservation practitioners, educators, and others on topics such as prairie conservation, at-risk species management, invasive control, forest management, aquatic resources, available cost-share programs for projects, and so on.

ES1-17: Use multiple media outlets (e.g., television/radio, print advertisements, internet, billboards, public displays) to increase awareness and support for Nebraska’s biological diversity and inform the public of progress made to conserve species and habitats.

ES1-18: Control invasive species in natural ecosystems.

ES1-19: Raise awareness about the role of farming and ranching in biological diversity conservation. Develop mentoring programs for landowners regarding ecologically-sound farming and ranching practices. Create farmer-to-farmer networks where landowners can share information and help each other with projects.

ES1-20: Develop and implement early detection and rapid response programs for invasive species, pests, and pathogens.

ES1-21: Use and promote restoration and management techniques that utilize native, locally adapted species whenever possible. Discourage the use of non-native species in restoration/management projects.

ES1-22: Discourage the placement of woody plantings and food plots within natural grassland communities, especially when it will result in increased fragmentation.

ES1-23: Increase participation in nature-based recreation.

ES1-24: Raise awareness about the role of urban/suburban backyards in biological diversity conservation. Develop mentoring programs for landowners regarding ecologically-sound landscaping and gardening practices. Create neighbor networks where landowners can share information and help each other with projects.

ES1-25: Use and promote restoration and management techniques that utilize native, locally adapted species whenever possible. Discourage the use of non-native species in restoration/management projects.

Strategy ES2 Species changes and biodiversity loss are accelerating. Facilitate species and ecosystem adaptation to climate change.

Climate change is influencing species and ecosystems by altering fundamental interactions with other species and the physical environment, leading to a cascade of impacts throughout ecosystems. Climate change is already having a significant impact on species including shifts in species distributions (i.e., shifting their distribution to higher/cooler elevations or latitudes), changes in phenology or timing of annual life-cycle events of species (i.e., shifts to breeding, hibernation, migration, or pollination), and decoupling of coevolved interactions (i.e., emergence of an insect may become out of sync with the flowering time of its host plant). In addition, climate change is expected to alter ecological processes such as fire patterns and hydrology and exacerbate a number of non-climate stressors such as habitat loss and fragmentation, pollution, and the spread of invasive species, pests, and pathogens.

Actions

ES2-1: Protect and maintain a network of conservation areas thereby promoting biodiversity corridors to support species migration and adaptation. Focus on areas that offer the best opportunities to conserve the full array of biological diversity and the nest chances for success as identified in the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project.

ES2-2: Improve the quality of public lands critical to conserving biological diversity by using management approaches such as prescribed burns and grazing appropriate to local plant communities.

ES2-3: Address major knowledge gaps regarding how fish and wildlife populations will persist in changing environments.

ES2-4: Develop and distribute a “best management practices guide” on prescribed burning that can be used to improve the management of grasslands, woodlands, and riparian areas for biological diversity. Include information on sources of technical information, funding programs, equipment needed, etc.

ES2-5: Utilize an adaptive management approach in implementing adaptation strategies.

ES2-6: Develop and distribute a “best management practices” guide on grazing that can be used to improve the management of grasslands and riparian areas for biological diversity. Include information on sources of technical information, funding programs, wildlife-friendly fencing specifications, and so on.

ES2-7: Promote and support the development of locally based grazing cooperatives and incentive programs that can facilitate grazing of playa wetlands, small disjunct prairie sites, woodlands and other sites with low grazing income potential.

ES2-8: Develop an integrated water management plan for all water uses throughout the state.

ES2-9: Strengthen existing or establish new statewide partnerships for promoting wetland, river, and stream conservation.

ES2-10: Evaluate the impacts of new dams, additional groundwater and surface water withdrawals, channelization, and levy/dike construction on biological diversity.

ES2-11: Collaborate with natural resource organizations and others to develop a list of preferred plant materials (e.g., trees, shrubs, grasses, forbs) that can be used in urban and rural settings with little threat to biological diversity. Develop guidelines that will help ensure potentially invasive species do not spread to natural communities.

ES2-12: Develop guidelines for applying herbicides and using biocontrols targeted at invasive species so that impacts on biological diversity are minimized.

ES2-13: Initiate a public outreach campaign on the impacts of invasive species on biological diversity.

ES2-14: Incentivizes private landowners to maintain natural habitats and cooperatively manage large blocks of habitat as complexes that conserve biological diversity.

ES2-15: Work with agricultural and conservation partners to prioritize the installation of conservation buffers, conservation tillage practices, and so on, within watersheds where the benefits to biological diversity would be highest.

ES2-16: Conduct inventories to identify additional Biologically Unique Landscapes that contain high-quality examples of ecological communities and populations of at-risk species.

ES2-17: Continue inventory of the currently described Biologically Unique Landscapes to better identify areas within them where multiple conservation objectives can be met.

ES2-18: Provide information to conservation planners and practitioners to help focus conservation actions. Decision-support tools (e.g., GIS data, models) may be used to evaluate options.

ES2-19: Work to ensure that high-quality occurrences of all terrestrial and aquatic community types in Nebraska are protected and managed for the long term.

ES2-20: Work to ensure that occurrences of viable populations of at-risk species are under long-term protection and management.

ES2-21: Monitor changing conditions and population fluctuations to adapt management efforts better as needed.

ES2-22: Start a natural areas program (modeled after successful programs in other states) that identifies and protects biologically unique sites that are managed to perpetuate Nebraska’s biological diversity.

ES2-23: Through conservation easements, facilitate the long-term protection of biologically important lands enrolled in short-term conservation programs (e.g., the Conservation Reserve Program, and private lands programs).

ES2-24: Seek opportunities to improve management on publicly owned lands not part of the conservation network (e.g., Bureau of Education Land Fund holdings) to increase benefits to biological diversity.

ES2-25: Consider the impacts of land-use change on habitat loss and fragmentation.

ES2-26: Identify and seek to overcome barriers that limit the ability of managers and private individuals to conduct prescribed burning on private and public lands.

ES2-27: Seek to maintain or restore the natural hydrology of rivers, streams, and wetlands to sustain biological diversity and ecosystem function. Accomplish this through the use of voluntary incentives, sound bioengineering solutions, and through collaborative decision-making.

ES2-28: Promote land acquisition policies founded on willing seller/willing buyer principles, maintain the local tax base, and provide equitable compensation to landowners.

ES2-29: Promote Management that is more Compatible with Conserving Biological Diversity. Collaborate with farmers, ranchers, and conservation organizations to identify opportunities and share responsibility for conserving biological diversity.

ES2-30: For select grasslands, evaluate the use of patch-burn grazing and other grazing systems that combine the interaction of fire and grazing to mimic pre-settlement disturbances. The timing, intensity, and duration of any fire-grazing system need to be carefully planned and implemented. Biologists and ranchers should carefully coordinate management strategies.

ES2-31: For woodland and forest systems, particularly in western Nebraska, use mechanical tree-thinning and prescribed fire to increase the system's resiliency to wildfires.

ES2-32: Use locally adapted native seed sources for pasture and rangeland seedings.

ES2-33: Utilize livestock grazing/haying systems with built-in drought management contingencies (e.g., grass banking).

ES2-34: Implement diverse haying strategies (e.g., on wet meadows) that stagger timing and height of cutting, promote increased plant and animal diversity, and avoid peak nesting periods for grassland birds.

ES2-35: Implement wildlife-friendly conservation buffers, grassed waterways, sediment traps on lands adjacent to wetlands, rivers, streams, reservoirs, and lakes to prevent siltation and protect water quality.

ES2-36: Implement water conservation measures such as more water-efficient irrigation systems, xeriscape landscaping, and water-conserving appliances, etc.

ES2-37: Utilize integrated pest management (e.g., non-chemical controls such as biocontrol, tillage, and spot spraying) to minimize impacts on biological diversity.

ES2-38: Implement conservation practices such as filter strips, grassed waterways, sediment control basins, and grassed buffers to minimize the effects of fertilizers and pesticides on wetlands, streams, rivers, and reservoirs.

ES2-39: Implement management practices that limit the impacts of nutrients, sedimentation, bacteria, and pesticides to help protect water quality. Examples include nutrient application on cropland, sediment control on construction sites, incentives for organic and low-chemical farming.

ES2-40: Protect additional (private) lands through acquisition and conservation easements and by implementing voluntary and incentive-based conservation actions on private lands.

ES2-41: Learn more about using fire to control woody plant invasion or revitalize grasslands by participating in a workshop hosted by the Prescribed Burn Task Force and Great Plains Fire Learning Network.

ES2-42: Consult with species experts and perform pre-burn evaluations to minimize impacts on species that may lack the ability to recolonize a site following burning.

ES2-43: Assess possible risks of invasive species spread from commercialized wildlife operations and take appropriate preventative measures.

ES2-44: Use restoration and management techniques that utilize native, locally adapted species whenever possible.

Strategy ES3 Recognize the value of ecosystem services in promoting climate adaptation.

Ecosystem-based adaptation is a strategy for adapting to climate change that harnesses existing nature-based solutions and ecosystem services such as providing clean water, local air and climate regulation, and risk and disease protection. By addressing increasing pressures on ecosystems, the State of Nebraska will increase its resilience to climate change, benefiting economic development, urban and rural communities, and fish and wildlife populations.

Actions

ES3-1: Promote the value of naturally meandering rivers and streams, the role of floodplains as habitat, and the need to maintain or closely simulate the natural hydrograph of rivers and streams to benefit biological diversity.

ES3-2: Seek to maintain or restore the natural hydrology of rivers, streams, and wetlands to sustain biological diversity and ecosystem function. Accomplish this using voluntary incentives, sound bioengineering solutions, and collaborative decision-making.

ES3-3: Facilitate cross-sectoral collaboration and develop integrated policies and frameworks.

ES3-4: Increase awareness and understanding of the benefits of nature-based solutions.

ES3-5: Advocate for increased adaptation funding and promote innovative financing mechanisms.

ES3-6: Prioritize capital improvement projects that provide stacked benefits/ecosystem services to the community.

ES3-7: Plant native vegetation within the road right-of-way to provide stormwater management and pollinator habitat.

ES3-8: Increase tree canopy in the urban landscape.

ES3-9: Promote ecotourism/recreational opportunities.

ES3-10: Improve soil health to address water and nutrient cycling, reduce potential climate impacts, and confer broader ecosystem services.

ES3-11: Install prairie strips -- strategically placed native prairie plantings in crop fields -- to improve soil health and water quality and provide critical habitat for wildlife and pollinators.

ES3-12: Convert turf/lawns to native vegetation to provide stormwater management and pollinator habitat.

Agriculture

Key Messages

• Observed and projected changes to temperature and precipitation trends have the potential to significantly impact crop and rangeland productivity, necessitating adaptation efforts.
• The most important potential impacts on agriculture in Nebraska include increasing rainfall variability, shifts to rainfall seasonality, increases in drought intensity, increased temperatures, decreased days with very cold temperatures, increased wildfires, and increased hail frequency and intensity. Such impacts have the potential to significantly reduce field crops and rangeland productivity.
• Field crop adaptation options include improvements to plant genetics, management shifts to crops grown and/or cropping systems, and soil and water management shifts.
• Rangeland adaptation options include heterogeneity-based rangeland management (e.g., pyric herbivory) and shifts to the kind (e.g., species) and class of animal to better adapt to expected challenges.

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy A1 Promote sustainable farming practices, such as soil conservation, water management, and integrated pest management, to ensure long-term resilience in Nebraska's agricultural systems.

Actions

A1-1: Support the implementation of agricultural best management practices (BMPs) through grants and cost-sharing opportunities.

A1-2: Support the implementation of agricultural BMPs through regulatory and permitting alignment and cost-sharing opportunities.

A1-3: Increase implementation of soil management practices associated with improving soil health. Practices such as conservation tillage, cover crops, perennial crops, and crop rotation are known to improve water retention, reduce runoff, and potentially decrease the need for fertilizer inputs and herbicide use. Soil health practices can potentially buffer negative climate impacts in both flooding and drought conditions.

A1-4: Prioritize residue management practices that armor soil throughout the year for erosion prevention.

A1-5: Shift to perennial crops that provide soil protection year-round.

A1-6: Implement conservation irrigation efforts, including shifts to irrigation technologies such as methods of application and scheduling of application, shifts to crops grown, and improved crop genetics for water use.

A1-7: Optimize irrigation resources.

A1-8: Install on-farm drainage systems, such as retention ponds or drainage ditches that can help manage excess water and prevent flooding.

A1-9: Use cattle exclusions (i.e., fencing) and develop alternative water supply systems such as off-takes from natural systems into watering areas.

A1-10: Efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation and soil moisture sensors, can help farmers manage water use more effectively, reducing the impact of higher water demands.

A1-11: The risk of increased pests necessitates best management practices such as scouting and timely pest management, which could interfere with the vernalization requirements of cool-season crops.

Strategy A2 Maintain field crop productivity into the future by implementing crop diversification practices and transitioning to climate-resilient crop systems and agricultural practices.

Variability in precipitation patterns and annual and seasonal shifts in temperature are causing heat and water stress, which will impact future corn and soybean yields. Estimates of crop productivity in the future project yield decline, with some research projecting less biophysically suitable conditions for corn and soybean by the end of the 21st century without further adaptation efforts (Burchfield, 2022). Impacts on wheat yields are mixed. Estimates of crop productivity project yield declines, while others suggest that wheat production could shift toward cooler conditions, leading to the potential for an increase in wheat acreage in Nebraska.

Actions

A2-1: Support research, extension services, and policies to facilitate the development and adoption of climate-resilient crop genetics, including varieties that are heat-tolerant, resistant to drought, less vulnerable to wind and hail damage, pests and diseases, and waterlogging, have shorter growing cycles, and use nitrogen and phosphorus more efficiently.

A2-2: Provide reliable support via infrastructure, markets, knowledge, equipment, and more. Such needs present significant challenges for producers and potential new business opportunities. Producers in the region note current time and resource limitations as barriers to shifting which crops are grown (Kasu et al., 2019).

A2-3: Conduct participatory breeding programs where farmers collaborate in testing and selecting the most resilient varieties for their areas.

A2-4: Incorporate genes from wild relatives of corn and soybeans to introduce natural resilience to a broader range of climate stresses.

A2-5: Identify crops that may be more biophysically adapted to be incorporated into future cropping systems (i.e., a recent report projecting the potential for crops grown in Kansas by 2050 found opportunities associated with a shift from crops with lower water demand, such as planting sorghum instead of corn, millet instead of soybean, and rye or oats instead of wheat [Suttles et al., 2024]).

A2-6: Shifting planting timing and/or planting shorter or longer season varieties to accommodate for shifts in rain (UNL,n.d.).

A2-7: Diversifying crops could avoid summer water-related stress and damage.

A2-8: Diversify crops and minimize summer annual crops; use more drought- and heat-tolerant varieties of corn, soy, and wheat.

A2-9: Including more winter annual or cool-season crops in rotation optimizes rainfall utilization: the main crop is harvested before summer drought, and increased use of different types of crops diversifies the risk of rainfall variability.

A2-10: Growing a variety of crops, especially those tolerant to waterlogged conditions, can help farmers spread risk and reduce the overall impact of extreme rainfall on their operations.

A2-11: A longer growing season presents expanded opportunities for cover cropping, relay cropping, and perennial grain or forage crops, as well as the potential for increased livestock integration on cropland. Utilize tools such as advances in plant breeding and crop and climate models to support optimizing such cropping systems.

A2-12: Shift planting timing, plant shorter season crops or alternative crops could avoid crop water stress with more variable rainfall.

A2-13: Reduce seeding rates (UNL, n.d.)

A2-14: More frequent applications of inputs to reduce losses (i.e., split application of nitrogen) (UNL, n.d.)

Strategy A3 Maintain rangeland productivity into the future by implementing heterogeneity-based rangeland management (HRM) which is a conservation and land management approach that emphasizes maintaining and promoting variability in vegetation structure, composition, and function across rangelands.

Actions

A3-1: Lower stocking rates to accommodate fluctuations in streamflow and water availability.

A3-2: Consider lowering stocking rates to accommodate increasing aridity and subsequent declines in forage production across the state.

A3-3: Woody plant encroachment into grasslands significantly threatens rangeland livestock production, specifically in highly productive grassland ecosystems like the tallgrass prairie (Engle et al., 2008).

A3-4: Develop and distribute a “best management practices” guide on grazing that can be used to improve the management of grasslands and riparian areas for biological diversity. Include information on sources of technical information, funding programs, and wildlife-friendly fencing specifications (Schneider et al., 2011).

A3-5: Increase the use and frequency of prescribed fire to improve forage conditions and utilize grazing management practices that capitalize on vegetation recovery (and high forage quality) immediately following a fire.

A3-6: Shifts to the kind (i.e., species) and class of animal to better adapt to expected challenges (i.e., consider the adoption of bison as a potential alternative to traditional livestock to cope with the effects of climate change).

A3-7: Altering the class of animal (e.g., moving from cow-calf to stocker steers) or increasing the diversity of animal kinds and classes in a livestock operation to better balance the risk and uncertainty of future climate change effects.

A3-8: Change the kind and class of livestock to capitalize on changes to the forage base.

A3-9: Consider changing the kind and class of animal to those better suited to changing aridity and humidity.

A3-10: Utilize grazing systems that capitalize on increased forage quality following fire (pyric herbivory), but at moderate (i.e., 20-25% harvest use efficiency) stocking rates to avoid steep declines in range condition and heterogeneity.

A3-11: Reduce restrictions to animal movement and increase the total available area to overcome increased spatial variability in water resources over time.

A3-12: Change animal grazing timing, kin and class of animal, or multi-species grazing to capitalize on changing forage quality in time.

A3-13: Promote landscape heterogeneity through managed disturbances.

A3-14: Improved ventilation and cooling systems, such as fans, sprinklers, and shade structures, can help livestock cope with higher nighttime temperatures and reduce heat stress.

A3-15: Develop and maintain permanent or semi-permanent water facilities (e.g., water tanks) to meet their livestock's basic physiological requirements during drought.

A3-16: Promote and support diverse grazing/haying systems on private and public lands that enhance biological diversity and sustain natural communities. Initiate research that evaluates the effectiveness and profitability of biological diversity-friendly grazing/haying systems (e.g., reduced stocking rates, rotational systems) (NE Natural Legacy Project, 2011).

A3-17: Promote and support the development of locally based grazing cooperatives and incentive programs that can facilitate grazing of playa wetlands, small disjunct prairie sites, woodlands, and other sites with low grazing income potential (Schneider et al., 2011).

A3-18: Support diverse haying strategies (e.g., on wet meadows) that stagger timing and height of cutting, promote increased plant and animal diversity, and avoid peak nesting periods for grassland birds (Schneider et al., 2011).

A3-19: Promote the use and availability of locally adapted native seed sources for pasture and rangeland seedings (Schneider et al., 2011).

A3-20: Promote livestock grazing/haying systems with built-in drought management contingencies (e.g., grass banking).

Strategy A4 Enhance the agricultural community's resilience to climate change by increasing access to financial resources, technical support, and innovative solutions.

Actions

A4-1: Seek and promote economic alternatives that help reduce further conversion of important rangelands and pastures to cropland (Schneider et al., 2011).

A4-2: Seek and promote economic alternatives that help reduce further conversion of important rangelands and pastures to cropland.

A4-3: Establish and expand funding programs (e.g., grants, low-interest loans, and subsidies) to help farmers adopt climate-smart practices and technologies.

A4-4: Develop crop insurance programs tailored to address risks associated with climate variability (e.g., drought, floods, and temperature extremes).

A4-5: Facilitate access to carbon markets and incentive programs for practices that sequester carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

A4-6: Expand agricultural extension services with expertise in climate adaptation, including tailored solutions for local conditions.

A4-7: Focus on equitable access to financial and technical resources, especially for marginalized communities within the agricultural sector.

A4-8: Advocate for policies prioritizing climate adaptation funding for smallholder and underserved farmers.

A4-9: Ensure the supply of cover crop seed meets the increasing demand under future climate conditions.

A4-10: Support research and demonstration projects to showcase best practices and emerging technologies.

A4-11: Develop and promote tools like decision-support software, weather prediction apps, and precision agriculture technologies to guide climate-adaptive farming.

A4-12: Offer training on using data-driven technologies to optimize yields while conserving resources.

A4-15: Participate in peer-learning opportunities and farmer-led innovation networks to foster knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

A4-13: Participate in peer-learning opportunities and farmer-led innovation networks to foster knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

Human Health

Key Messages

• Climate change is associated with adverse health outcomes in Nebraska, including heat-related morbidity and mortality during heat waves, physical and mental health impacts during drought and flood events, and increased risk of certain infectious diseases like West Nile virus due to changing temperature and precipitation patterns.
• Some Nebraskans are more impacted by the health impacts associated with climate change than others.
• Adaptation and mitigation efforts addressing the health impacts of climate change can protect Nebraskans.

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy H1 Mitigate the impacts of climate change on public health.

Implementing measures to adapt to and mitigate the health impacts of climate change can protect Nebraskans. This includes developing climate action and resilience plans that enhance emergency preparedness, improve air quality, set emission reduction targets, and enhance public health initiatives.

Actions

H1-1: Identify, prioritize, and incorporate climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies into health planning and regulations. Include actions that promote healthy living and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and toxic pollutants.

H1-2: Consider climate resilience, health benefits, future climate, and cumulative impacts, including historical burdens, in cost assessment requirements for the State of Nebraska planning and investment decisions.

H1-3: Incorporate current information about climate change projections and impacts into state and local emergency planning efforts and emphasize climate-related disaster preparedness in emergency response plans, including the Emergency Operations Plan, Behavioral Health All-Hazards Disaster Response and Recovery Plan, and Department of Health and Human Services Disaster Plan.

H1-4: Collaborate with local governments to help incorporate healthy living strategies into land use planning and regulations. These include compact development that concentrates growth in compact, walkable urban centers to avoid sprawl.

H1-5: Increase public health capacity, funding, collaboration, and adaptation resources for local public health departments, local governments, and agencies supporting Nebraska’s vulnerable populations.

H1-6: Work with partner agencies on policies to improve and protect air quality and water security based on health and environmental data, implement health-based standards, and remain proactive in identifying emerging contaminants, vectors, and diseases of concern related to climate change.

H1-7: Implement enhanced surveillance of vectors and related diseases.

H1-8: Implement better surveillance for injury and other flood-related health outcomes, including increased syndromic surveillance for flood events.

H1-9: Improve our understanding of human health impacts of climate change and extreme weather through continued interdisciplinary studies at the University of Nebraska and with agency scientists. Further work needs to focus on better understanding the risks, identifying the areas and populations at greatest risk, and exploring new methods to address the identified risks.

H1-10: Partner with area agencies to develop a Natural Disaster Response, Relief, and Recovery Plan. Focus on communications, property adaptation and resiliency, housing needs, risk assessment, land acquisition, and critical infrastructure resilience. Identify the location of critical facilities, including hospitals, medical service providers, senior homes, childcare facilities, shelters, major and alternate transportation routes, public transit facilities, and locations where hazardous chemicals are used or stored.

H1-11: Improve health and transportation system resilience to floods using updated NOAA Atlas 14 precipitation projections.

H1-12: Conduct a needs assessment of accessible community centers for extreme weather or other emergencies. Create a development improvement plan, if needed.

H1-13: Develop post-flood vector control plans.

H1-14: Put together an emergency preparedness kit for your household or business.

H1-15: Prepare your home for the extremes. Understand the risk of extreme weather, extreme temperatures, flooding, or wildfire and take action to safeguard your home or business.

Strategy H2 Build resilience in climate-vulnerable communities.

Climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, including people of color, Indigenous populations, low-income groups, and those with chronic health conditions. Addressing their specific needs reduces health disparities, promotes equity, and improves outcomes by mitigating climate-related health issues like heat illnesses, respiratory conditions, and mental health challenges. Strengthening infrastructure and emergency response systems in these communities enhances preparedness for extreme weather, reducing injury, illness, and death risks.

Actions

H2-1: Collaborate with local health departments and communities facing climate and health inequities to develop a shared vision and action plan for protecting health equity and well-being in a changing climate.

H2-2: Actively engage with priority communities in a coordinated and well-resourced way so that underrepresented voices are centered in the development of climate policies, programs and public investments.

H2-3: Improve wildfire smoke guidance for schools, children, and other vulnerable populations including low-income populations, communities of color, and tribal communities.

H2-4: Encourage the development of climate vulnerability assessment and action plans in communities and cities across the state.

H2-5: Enhance the ability of local organizations to understand climate risks and reach vulnerable populations.

H2-6: Increase air quality monitoring, particularly in rural communities.

H2-7: Set up temporary respiratory health clinics or expand telehealth services in areas affected by wildfires.

H2-8: Develop community mental health programs and peer support networks in agricultural communities.

H2-9: Improve weatherization and energy efficiency in under-resourced and vulnerable communities.

H2-10: Establish heating and cooling centers in under-resourced and vulnerable communities, supported by renewable energy generation and battery backups.

H2-11: Install and maintain additional shade structures, tree canopy, water features, and drinking water stations in public spaces. Target early adoption for areas identified as having high potential for urban heat island impacts, particularly within under-resourced and vulnerable residential neighborhoods.

Strategy H3 Implement public health initiatives that educate Nebraskans on the impacts of climate change and the health benefits of adaptation and mitigation efforts.

Educating the public raises awareness about the specific health risks associated with climate change, such as heat-related illnesses, respiratory conditions, and vector-borne diseases, enabling individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves. Meanwhile, understanding the health benefits of adaptation and mitigation efforts, such as improved air quality, reduced heat exposure, and enhanced mental health, motivates individuals and communities to participate in and support these efforts.

Actions

H3-1: Improve education and messaging regarding Nebraska’s priority climate impact risks and actions to protect health, especially for populations with greater vulnerability and risk.

H3-2: Convene an expert workgroup to assess the state's existing climate, health education, and communication capacity. Then, establish a communication protocol that includes best practices for communicating climate and health risks, vulnerabilities, and adaptation opportunities, with attention paid to impacts on underserved or overburdened communities.

H3-3: Expand training and education of health and social services providers, including mental health agencies, to build capacity to respond appropriately to human health risks of climate change.

H3-4: Educate other sectors of state government about public health climate change impacts and adaptation.

H3-5: Provide vulnerable populations with information on what they need to know and how to prepare for and address the risks of climate change.

H3-6: Promote indoor air quality improvements, including use of air purifiers and proper ventilation.

H3-7: Engage and motivate citizens and organizations to take action to build resilient communities.

H3-8: Establish an Adopt-A-Neighbor campaign, or "neighborhood resilience watch," to create neighborhood-level support for vulnerable individuals during extreme weather events and emergencies.

Communities and the Built Environment

Key Messages

• Nebraska communities have faced an increased likelihood of extreme weather and climate events, leading to longer durations, broader geographic impacts, higher costs, and deeper social consequences.
• Nebraska's urban and rural areas are at heightened risk of extreme future weather and climate events and increased physical and social vulnerabilities.
• To address these challenges, key strategies for reducing the potential risks of climate change include effective land-use planning, sound natural system preservation, essential infrastructure improvements, ongoing public engagement, and regional cooperation.

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy C1 Enhance Nebraska's infrastructure resilience.

Strengthening roads, bridges, and rail systems can ensure reliable access to emergency services and supply chains during floods or severe storms while modernizing water systems can safeguard water quality and availability in the event of droughts or infrastructure damage. Similarly, upgrading energy grids to withstand extreme heat, ice storms, and high winds can prevent widespread power outages, critical for maintaining public safety, healthcare, and economic stability. By proactively investing in resilient infrastructure, Nebraska communities can reduce recovery costs, protect vital resources, and build a foundation for sustainable growth in an era of climate uncertainty.

Actions

C1-1: Develop a Climate Mitigation and Resilience Plan for the State of Nebraska.

C1-2: Require consideration of climate risks, response strategies, and adaptation standards in capital planning, including the site selection, design, and construction of state-funded infrastructure projects.

C1-3: Require incorporation of climate impacts and response strategies in the state's long-range transportation plans; mode-specific plans for highways, rail, aviation, and ferries; and regional transportation plans.

C1-4: Develop transportation design and engineering guidance to minimize climate change risks.

C1-5: Advance the adoption and enforcement of progressive building codes and design standards to reduce the vulnerability of structures to climate-related hazards.

C1-6: Adopt regulatory and incentive programs to encourage state, tribal, and local transit organizations, public works departments, utilities, and other partners to demonstrate awareness of infrastructure and system climate risk vulnerabilities and implement resilience measures.

C1-7: Identify existing or establish new Nebraska-specific tools to share with local governments, state and tribal agencies, and local communities to help them understand key vulnerabilities to climate impacts and what actions can be taken.

C1-8: Integrate climate change into county, municipal, and public power district planning documents and initiatives to help guide local actions.

C1-9: Evaluate the vulnerability of critical energy and communication infrastructure to the impacts of climate change, including risks of damage and the potential for disruptions and outages from flooding, extreme heat, wildfires, erosion, and extreme weather events.

C1-10: Evaluate the vulnerability of critical transportation infrastructure and integrate climate adaptation and resilience principles into their design, construction, and operation.

C1-11: Improve or enhance the permitting of infrastructure projects with established climate resilience and mitigation guidance and standards.

C1-12: Update stormwater design standards to address expected changes in precipitation, focus on low-impact development techniques, address flash flooding, and preserve natural streams and wetlands to reduce flood risks and improve storage during extreme weather events.

C1-13: Create and implement a plan to conserve and protect floodplains, reducing development impact. Focus on preserving floodplains and restoring native habitats.

C1-14: Establish a program for acquiring residential properties and local businesses that repeatedly suffer flood damage.

Strategy C2 Promote climate-informed land use planning.

Integrating climate projections into land-use planning is essential for strengthening community resilience across Nebraska. Communities can develop effective mitigation strategies by assessing localized climate impacts and identifying vulnerable areas—such as floodplains, drought-prone regions, and zones at risk of extreme weather. These include updating zoning regulations to limit development in high-risk areas, implementing green infrastructure to manage stormwater, and revising building codes to ensure structures withstand extreme conditions. Using climate data in planning helps protect residents, safeguard infrastructure, reduce economic losses, and promote sustainable development, ensuring Nebraska is better prepared for future challenges.

Actions

C2-1: Develop specific and actionable guidelines and technical assistance to local communities on sustainable, resilient, and equitable land use and community development planning that explicitly considers climate change impacts and resilience.

C2-2: Evaluate and propose revisions of laws and rules that govern land use and other programs to effectively address resilience to climate change impacts.

C2-3: Review, revise, and enhance building and site design standards in flood and wildfire hazard zones to improve resilience.

C2-4: Provide outreach and education to local governments on opportunities to reduce risks from climate change in their communities via updates and changes to local land-use ordinances.

C2-5: Identify and address land use and infrastructure creating disproportionate risks for minority and low-income communities.

C2-6: Incorporate climate risk reduction strategies into the community's comprehensive plan, watershed plan, hazard mitigation plan, emergency management plan, or program operational guidance materials

C2-7: Avoid development in highly vulnerable areas and promote sustainable development in appropriate, less vulnerable areas. Adopt zoning changes or special overlay districts to designate high-risk areas of flooding or wildfires

C2-8: Implement the transfer of development rights or other incentives to enable developers to increase densities on low flood-risk parcels while keeping flood-prone areas undeveloped.

C2-9: Facilitate informational events and resources to educate residents and businesses on topics related to sustainability and resilience.

C2-10: Implement urban tree canopy and forest management plans and practices to retain biodiversity, resilience, and ecosystem function and services.

C2-11: Ensure that facilities that serve vulnerable populations are resilient to climate hazards and have established best practices for responding to emergencies such as flooding, power outages, and extreme heat.

C2-12: Connect with existing community groups and facilitate the creation of new ones to focus on resiliency regarding extreme weather events, safety in outdoor recreation, and environmentally themed community involvement activities.

Strategy C3 Increase the resilience of Nebraska communities by fostering greater self-reliance.

Implementing initiatives that promote sustainable food systems, regenerative agriculture, green industries, and local economic development can significantly enhance the resilience of Nebraska communities. Supporting local food production, renewable energy projects, and environmentally responsible businesses reduces dependence on external resources, improves food security, and strengthens self-reliance. These efforts also benefit public health by reducing pollution, increasing access to nutritious food, and promoting cleaner, more efficient systems. By creating jobs and stimulating local economies, such initiatives build stronger, healthier, and more adaptable communities while fostering long-term environmental and economic sustainability.

https://mitsloan.mit.edu/sites/default/files/2022-06/MITSloan-SustainabilityArticlePublication-F.pdf

https://open.umn.edu/opentextbooks/textbooks/142”

https://www.lisc.org/our-resources/resource/climate-change-preparedness-toolkit-business-development-organizations/

https://www.lisc.org/our-resources/resource/climate-change-preparedness-toolkit-business-development-organizations/https://www.communitygarden.org/garden

https://www.arborday.org/shopping/trees/treewizard/getzip.cfm

Actions

C3-1: Develop a Nebraska Green Job Youth Corps program that prioritizes workforce development and economic diversification while providing temporary work and training opportunities for young adults in natural resource management, resilient agricultural development, conservation, renewable energy, or other sustainability professions.

C3-2: Conduct a resilient-economy development assessment. Identify the economic potential and entrepreneurial and job development opportunities derived from adaptation, mitigation, and resilience actions in the Nebraska economy. Specifically, scenarios for potential impacts on low/moderate income and other vulnerable populations should be evaluated.

C3-3: Working with the Nebraska University System, identify key opportunities for green-technology-led economic development, prioritize areas that assist with climate change transitions and mitigation, and institute seed-granting opportunities and research capacity-building efforts to grow the state's university expertise and competitiveness.

C3-4: Establish a "Nebraska Green Tech and Business Incubator" to support the establishment of innovative energy and sustainability-driven businesses within Nebraska.

C3-5: Establish a Nebraska Green Bank to support resilient economic development. See Inflation Reduction Act funding and Federal Green Bank for resources.

C3-6: Promote local and community-based agriculture throughout Nebraska to reduce transportation needs and increase food access, especially in underserved communities.

C3-7: Establish or expand an Emerging Farmer Program and similar programs to support farmers and agricultural/food entrepreneurs, with particular attention to regenerative practices and advancing inclusion and equity.

C3-8: Establish consortiums to hold round-table discussions with large employers and industries key to the Nebraska economy, as well as important emerging sectors, to understand potential short-, near-, and long-term impacts to employment sector resilience and coordinate in identifying resilience actions.

C3-9: Ensure key business infrastructure is recognized in the community’s general hazard mitigation and emergency response plans.

C3-10: Focus community business development efforts on businesses with lower impacts on natural resources and promote green job creation.

C3-11: Consider climate change-related risks to local supply chains in implementing the community's economic development strategy.

C3-12: Collaborate with partners to hold round-table discussions with large employers and industries key to the community’s economy and resident employment to understand potential short-, near-, and long-term impacts to employment sector resilience and coordinate in identifying resilience actions.

C3-13: Revise zoning ordinances to remove barriers to urban agriculture: yard and rooftop food production, beekeeping, front-yard gardens, edible landscaping, and foraging. Examine and pursue other policy levers to increase food production within the community. Utilize available and appropriate parks and recreation lands for urban farming and food production.

C3-14: Review/update code to provide incentives for multi-unit buildings and developments/subdivisions and commercial developers to preserve topsoil, use finished compost for soil amendment, and provide space for backyard or community gardens.

C3-15: Plant fruit and nut trees in appropriate City-owned properties and rights-of-way throughout the City. Explore partnerships with local organizations to collect and distribute fruit and nuts from planted trees.

C3-16: Access information on sustainable business practices through resources like MIT, the University of New Hampshire, or the Green Business Benchmark.

C3-17: Create a Disaster Preparedness Plan or Preparedness Toolkit for your business.

C3-18: Start a vegetable garden in your yard.

C3-19: See if there is a community garden near you, or work with others to start a community garden so you can grow your own.

C3-20: Plant fruit or nut trees or shrubs on your property that are well suited for the hardiness zone.

Indigenous Peoples

Key Messages

• Weather and climate impacts are disproportionately strong in Indigenous communities. 
• Adaptation work is taking place locally with Tribally- led efforts. 
• Self-determination, recognition of rights and sovereignty, and the ability to reclaim and/or reimagine culture are keys to success. 

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy I1 Promote self-determination and sovereignty.

Promoting Native American community self-determination and sovereignty strengthens both Tribal and state resilience by fostering sustainable land stewardship and cultural preservation. Supporting Indigenous communities in reclaiming and managing their lands, recognizing their rights, and enabling self-governance empowers Tribes to implement traditional ecological knowledge and practices that enhance environmental resilience. These efforts improve the state’s ability to address climate challenges while preserving biodiversity and cultural heritage. Collaborative partnerships with Tribal nations also build mutual trust and shared capacity, creating a more unified and adaptive approach to resilience that benefits the entire state.

Actions

I1-1: Establish mechanisms to empower indigenous communities and organizations to participate in appropriate state agency processes.

I1-2: Support Indigenous communities in developing their climate adaptation plans, tailored to their specific needs and priorities, based on their traditional knowledge and cultural practices.

I1-3: Advocate for and support secure land tenure for Indigenous communities, recognizing their role as stewards of critical ecosystems and ensuring their ability to manage land sustainably in the face of climate change.

I1-4: Provide technical assistance, funding, and training opportunities to Indigenous communities to build capacity for climate adaptation planning and implementation.

I1-5: Collaborate with indigenous communities to identify and support strategies to protect and maintain cultural heritage sites, practices, and traditional food sources across Nebraska threatened by climate change.

I1-6: Develop a community climate adaptation and mitigation plan. Include a focus on energy and food sovereignty.

I1-7: Invest in training and education for tribal members, including youth, to build capacity in areas like climate science, environmental management, and policy advocacy.

I1-8: Actively participate in state and federal decision-making processes related to climate change, ensuring tribal interests are represented and respected.

I1-9: Advocate for policies that protect tribal lands and ensure access to necessary resources for adaptation efforts, such as water rights and funding for climate resilience projects.

I1-10: Share knowledge and best practices with other tribes facing similar climate challenges, creating a network of support and collaboration.

Strategy I2 Integrate Indigenous knowledge systems in planning.

Integrating Indigenous knowledge systems into climate resilience planning enhances a state's ability to adapt to and mitigate climate impacts. Developed over generations, Indigenous knowledge offers sustainable resource management practices, improved risk assessment, and locally relevant adaptation strategies. Incorporating these insights supports environmental sustainability, preserves cultural heritage, and fosters equitable policies that respect Indigenous rights and priorities. Engaging Indigenous communities in planning ensures inclusive and ethical decision-making, creating climate strategies that benefit both the environment and the diverse communities it sustains.

Actions

I2-1: Establish formal consultation processes with Indigenous communities to gather knowledge about local ecosystems, climate patterns, and adaptation strategies for inclusion in state planning and programs.

I2-2: Facilitate workshops and dialogues to share scientific knowledge with Indigenous communities and vice versa.

I2-3: Empower and support Indigenous communities to lead research projects focused on their traditional knowledge and provide a venue for sharing the research findings with other communities throughout Nebraska.

I2-4: Regularly consult with elders and traditional knowledge holders to gather insights on past climate patterns, resilience, and adaptation strategies. Integrate knowledge in community plans, communications, and programs.

I2-5: Empower young people to learn and actively participate in integrating Indigenous knowledge into community plans.

I2-6: Partner with scientists to design research questions incorporating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

Strategy I3 Strengthen food sovereignty and traditional knowledge and practices.

Supporting tribal food sovereignty strengthens statewide climate resilience by promoting sustainable and self-reliant agricultural systems. Tribal communities use diverse farming methods adapted to local ecosystems, enhancing soil health and reducing risks from climate-related crop failures. Local food systems decrease dependence on vulnerable supply chains, ensuring food stability during disruptions. Indigenous ecological knowledge provides valuable strategies for resilient farming and land management. These practices also boost ecosystem services like water filtration, carbon storage, and biodiversity while empowering communities to address climate challenges collectively. Investing in tribal food sovereignty builds stronger, more resilient agriculture and communities statewide.

Actions

I3-1: Work with Indigenous communities to identify and protect critical habitats for culturally important plants and animals, including wildlife management and plans that consider Indigenous needs.

I3-2: Facilitate market access for Indigenous food producers by connecting them with consumers and supporting the development of local food systems.

I3-3: Foster partnerships between state agencies, federal agencies, Tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations to effectively address climate change impacts on tribal food systems.

I3-4: Explore the development of a community-wide community-supported agriculture (CSA) program focused on increasing affordable access to fresh fruits and vegetables for food-insecure and low-income community members. CSA program to prioritize and incentivize local farmers using or transitioning to regenerative agriculture practices.

I3-5: Establishing a seed-keeping bank to support local growers and traditional values.

I3-6: Develop and implement a youth and adult curriculum around local food, climate change, and food security through Indigenous and traditional practices.

I3-7: Create an Agriculture Resource Management Plan and consider climate change in production and foraging goals and objectives.

Climate Justice and Equity

Key Messages

• Social systems are changing the climate with inequalities in harms and benefits to different social groups.
• Low-income people of all racial groups and communities of color in Nebraska are likely to face greater exposure to increasing risks from climate change and be more vulnerable to negative climate-related impacts.
• Climate change-related impacts are likely to reproduce or expand social inequalities in Nebraska without new policy interventions related to housing, workplace protections, and energy.
• Climate justice requires that all communities be meaningfully and equitably involved in planning for the transitions necessary to adapt to unstoppable climate changes underway and reduce emissions to prevent more extreme future changes.

Recommended Adaptation Strategies

Strategy CJ1 Increase community involvement and empowerment.

Climate resilience within Nebraska can be improved through actively involving and empowering vulnerable and marginalized communities in adaptation planning and decision-making. Developing policies that ensure these communities have a platform to voice their concerns and priorities fosters inclusive solutions that reflect diverse needs. Incorporating local knowledge and perspectives into policy development strengthens the relevance and effectiveness of strategies and builds trust and collaboration. Empowering communities in this way enhances their capacity to adapt to climate challenges while ensuring equitable and sustainable outcomes for all.

Actions

CJ1-1: Identify and prioritize communities disproportionately affected by climate change and historically underserved in resource allocation. Use mapping tools and data to develop equitable criteria for recognizing these communities and creating opportunities for their inclusion in state planning and program development.

CJ1-2: Develop a public engagement plan to capture and prioritize experiences, perspectives, ideas, and strategies most important to community members disproportionately affected by environmental and climate change impacts.

CJ1-3: Establish mechanisms to empower community members and organizations to participate in appropriate state agency processes.

CJ1-4: Establish sustained outreach and engagement efforts that seek to build and maintain direct relationships with under-resourced, traditionally marginalized, and climate-vulnerable communities within the community. Organize regular community meetings focusing on different demographics and locations to address climate action concerns and build awareness of opportunities for the community.

CJ1-5: Provide education and resources about climate risks to the public, especially those most vulnerable to the potential impacts of high heat and extreme weather.

CJ1-6: Support the capacity of neighborhood and community groups to implement climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives.

Strategy CJ2 Prioritize targeted investment in vulnerable communities.

Prioritizing investments in infrastructure, housing, and energy efficiency improvements in vulnerable, low-income, and minority communities can strengthen Nebraska’s climate resilience. Expanding programs like the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) reduces energy burdens, improves living conditions, and promotes affordability. Additionally, creating green spaces and implementing climate-resilient infrastructure in these areas can enhance environmental and social benefits while mitigating climate impacts. To ensure equity, policies should prevent displacement, allowing communities to directly benefit from these improvements. By addressing systemic inequalities, such targeted investments build stronger, more resilient communities while advancing environmental justice.

Actions

CJ2-1: Prioritize state investment and support local government investment in projects and programs that explicitly address climate change impacts and support new or ongoing access to health, safety, job opportunities, natural and cultural resources, and a better quality of life in underserved and overburdened communities.

CJ2-2: Expand and accelerate weatherization and efficiency improvements for vulnerable communities. Explore revisions to funding and prioritization formulas for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) to ensure distribution equitably addresses impacts, resilience, mitigation opportunity, and support of vulnerable where funding is most needed and can have the greatest impact.

CJ2-3: Commit resources to develop working relationships, information exchange, and trust between agencies and underserved and overburdened communities affected by climate adaptation planning and implementation processes.

CJ2-4: Examine the socioeconomic impacts of climate change on local communities and identify opportunities to provide climate change adaptation assistance.

CJ2-5: Explore the development of one or more Green Zones, a place-based policy initiative aimed at improving health and supporting economic development using environmentally conscious efforts in communities that face the cumulative effects of environmental pollution, as well as social, political, and economic vulnerability.

CJ2-6: Explore opportunities to broaden the community's economic base with diversification initiatives, such as targeting the development of emerging clusters or industries that build on the region’s unique assets and competitive strengths and provide stability during downturns that disproportionately impact any single cluster or industry.

CJ2-7: Develop a transparent and inclusive decision-making framework designed to achieve climate, equity, safety, health, and prosperity goals.

Strategy CJ3 Increase equitable access to resilience, clean energy, and jobs

Climate resilience within Nebraska can be enhanced by increasing equitable access to clean energy, resilience resources, and economic opportunities. Promoting the clean energy transition ensures benefits such as job creation, reduced pollution, and lower energy costs are shared equitably. This includes investing in training and employment opportunities for workers from disadvantaged communities in the clean energy sector and ensuring public utilities and renewable energy projects prioritize fair labor practices and community benefits. Additionally, addressing the rising costs of insurance—exacerbated by climate impacts—through subsidies, expanded coverage options, or risk reduction strategies can protect vulnerable populations from financial strain. Together, these efforts create a more inclusive and resilient economy while fostering environmental and social equity.

Actions

CJ3-1: Improve enforcement of worker-related environmental protections and create protections for state employees where absent.

CJ3-2: Establish a consortium of experts, including groups such as the Western Governors Association, to evaluate options for addressing the rapidly rising insurance cost for businesses, homeowners, and individuals driven by national and regional climate change impacts. Explore options for insurance regulation, incentives, or programs to reduce costs and increase competition.

CJ3-3: Collaborate with local community leaders, design professionals, developers, and contractors to identify synergistic sustainability, resilience, and mitigation strategies that meet larger climate goals while supporting housing availability, affordability, and workforce development.

CJ3-4: Promote and support affordable housing in safe areas across the state (e.g., by providing incentives and removing obstacles to building affordable housing in lower-risk areas).

CJ3-5: Establish incentives to support clean energy installations serving under-served and vulnerable communities.

CJ3-6: Explore establishing an incentive or cost-sharing program to reduce the costs of solar PV for income-qualified homeowners.

CJ3-7: Coordinate with partners, including local unions, to develop and promote job training programs to equip individuals with valuable, future-oriented skills that contribute to climate resilience while also providing pathways to employment, particularly for those in disadvantaged communities.

CJ3-8: Conduct a study to Identify economic opportunities possible through climate resilience and mitigation actions, especially those that can provide opportunities for the community's vulnerable populations and advancement of entrepreneurship.

CJ3-9: Conduct an Affordable Housing Plan to identify current and future needs for affordable housing, including scenarios anticipating climate immigration and migration potentials.