Climate change impacts
The Yakima River basin in Washington State, USA, supports billions of dollars in agriculture, and is also rich in salmon and rainbow trout, which are significant to the livelihood and culture of indigenous peoples. The Yakima River Basin has experienced droughts in five of the past 15 years. Water shortages in drought years have significantly impacted local productivity, and highlighted climate change hazards. The Third National Climate Assessment Study (see Note) also predicts further challenges for the region from climate change.
Adaptation activity
Yakama Nation leaders, irrigation facilities, environmental organizations, and federal, state, county and municipal governments have recognized the vulnerability of the Yakima River basin and a working group was launched in 2009 to address the growing water issues. A 30-year Yakima River Basin Integrated Water Resources Management Plan (Fig.) was developed in 2011. Crucial perspectives on the conservation, and enhancement of, fish and wildlife habitats, while ensuring water supply, were included in this strategy.
The plan is organized into three phases, with 70,000 acres of forest land being purchased by 2025 in the first phase, and managed for the restoration and conservation of watersheds. Also included measures such as water conservation, fish passage, construction of pipelines and drought relief pumping stations, and river restoration projects.
Outputs / Expected benefits
Around 2040, when the management plan has been fully implemented, a stable water supply is expected to support healthy populations of salmon and rainbow trout. It is also expected to provide at least 70% of allocated water supply in times of drought, ensuring that agricultural water demands are always met.
Footnote
(NOTE) U.S. Global Change Research Program "National Climate Assessment"
https://nca2014.globalchange.gov/
