West Central Initiative is pleased to be working with paleBLUEdot, LLC., a climate action, sustainability, and renewable-energy planning provider based in Maplewood, Minnesota, to develop climate-planning tools for west central Minnesota.
Phase One
Phase one of the project will begin with distribution of a survey to assist in defining climate-related issues of relevance and concern to the people of the area. Then, paleBLUEdot will conduct a vulnerability assessment to identify anticipated impacts, vulnerable populations, and specific climate hazards in the region. Using information from the assessment, paleBLUEdot will compile area-specific data on energy use and emissions, infrastructure, natural resources, transportation, and potential renewable energy sources to create a regional assessment of current climate sustainability and opportunities to improve it. We’ll present reports generated from this phase of the project at a series of public meetings this fall.
Phase Two
The second phase of the project will incorporate public feedback and acquired data to develop goals for climate adaptation and mitigation as well as strategies for attaining them. The study is slated for completion in the spring of 2023 and will be available throughout the region when complete.
The final product will be a roadmap for the region to address climate issues and lessen the impacts now and for future generations.
