Issue/Question
How is BHSU preparing for climate related risks while supporting a resilient campus and community?
Environment
- BHSU partnered with the City of Spearfish and community leaders to develop and publish a Climate Resiliency Plan, February 2020, that addresses local risks such as severe storms, flooding, drought, wildfire, changing temperatures, and other climate related challenges.
Cause
Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events while placing additional pressure on infrastructure, natural resources, public health, and the local economy.
Resolution
The Climate Resiliency Plan establishes seven resiliency priorities:
- Prepare for extreme weather events through emergency planning, volunteer training, and resilient infrastructure.
- Nurture economic health by promoting workforce housing, tourism, and business development.
- Strategically invest in educational resources that strengthen workforce development and community partnerships.
- Increase environmental coordination and monitoring to better understand and respond to changing conditions.
- Improve access to basic human needs, including healthcare, housing, food security, and emergency services.
- Build community cohesion through collaboration, communication, and volunteer engagement.
- Conserve our natural resources by protecting forests, water resources, energy systems, and wildlife.