Climate Change in National Capital Region Parks
Climate change is here, it will worsen over time, and it threatens our natural and cultural resources. Although our weather is variable — we might experience a rainstorm, a dry week, or a cold snap — the average long-term pattern of these weather conditions, known as "climate," is changing.
Certain gases like carbon dioxide are released as a byproduct of human activities such as transportation and manufacturing. The gases build up in the atmosphere and trap heat. As we overload the atmosphere with these gases, the planet's average temperature increases.
Many things are changing as a result. Ice is melting, sea levels are rising, and seasons are shifting. These changes have the potential to substantially alter the character of our national parks. For example, the Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park might not survive in a hotter world.
In the face of climate change, how can we take care of the important resources in our national parks? These web pages explain our response, and show how you can help.
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