Impacts of Global Climate Change on Tribes in Washington

Authors: Rob Cole

Disciplines: Biology, Environmental Studies, Geology

Themes: Activism, Climate Change, Intergovernmental Relations, Salmon

Tribes: All Tribes

This case study is an introduction to the potential impacts of global climate change on some of the Tribal lands in Washington State. It explores specifically the impacts of sea level rise on Tribal lands in coastal regions, or in the Puget sound region. The case is based upon the scientific evidence for global climate change, and the measured sea level rise in Seattle over the past century. The case examines the effects of winter storm surges coupled with high tides, as well as the increased rate of sever winter storms and associated flooding in river and estuary regions. This case is designed to be used in conjunction with interrupted lecture or interrupted workshop formats of presentation.

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