The Wood Pawcatuck Watershed Association (WPWA) is proud to present their Adapting the Watershed lecture series co-sponsored by the University of Rhode Island’s Coastal Institute. It focuses on how communities within the Wood-Pawcatuck watershed can adapt to the many changes we may experience due to climate change. These proactive and informative talks will take a watershed approach to how they can prepare and adapt to these changes.

Rhode Island towns that fall within the watershed include West Greenwich, Exeter, South Kingstown, Charlestown, Westerly, Hopkinton and Richmond. Connecticut towns that fall within the watershed include Stonington, N. Stonington, Voluntown and Sterling. This is an opportunity for these communities to come together to understand the changes that may impact them in the future and how they can react accordingly. The lectures are free and open to the public, and all attendees will receive a free 12-month membership to WPWA.

Where: Chariho Middle School Auditorium, 455B Switch Road, Wood River Junction, RI Get directions on Google Maps

When: All talks will be held from 6:30-8:30pm, doors open at 6pm:

Thursday, June 26

Storms and Floods: Are They the New Normal?

David R. Vallee, NOAA, NERFC Hydrologist In Charge Presentation (PDF)

Michelle Burnett, RIEMA, Rhode Island State Floodplain Coordinator Presentation (PDF)

Thursday, July 10

Water: Will There Be Enough… or Too Much?

Tom Boving, URI, Professor of Geosciences/Civil and Environmental Engineering Presentation (PDF)

Alyson McCann, URI, Water Quality Program Coordinator Presentation (PDF)

Thursday, July 24

Plants and Animals: How Will They Change Throughout the Watershed

Peter August, Professor, URI Department of Natural Resources Science; WPWA Trustee Presentation (PDF)

Gary Casabona, USDA NRCS, State Biologist Presentation (PDF)

For more information contact:

Chris Fox

401-539-9017

[email protected]

Additional Resources:

RI’s Climate Challenge

Adapting to Climate Change in the Ocean State

National Climate Assessment

IPCC Fifth Assessment Report