A report from Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and the Democratic staff of the Natural Resources Committee describes how climate change is affecting New England.
WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE A LOOK:
The report provides maps and data that paint a picture of how New England's climate has already changed and how the region continues to be in danger of losing quintessential characteristics, historic landmarks, and economic engines from more frequent and intense storms, floods and sea-level rise.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• January to August 2012 set a new record for high temperatures.
• Rates of sea-level rise are two to four times faster than the global average.
• Precipitation in New England is becoming increasingly erratic, making damaging floods more likely.
• New England has lost 9 snow days every decade since 1965.
• In 2012, New England syrup production was down 27 percent from the previous year.
• By 2100, Maine will likely be the only state in New England cold enough to sustain ski resorts.
• Drought will dull New England's iconic palette of fall colors.
• Climate change represents a critical threat to several of New England’s iconic species.
• Many of New England’s streams will become uninhabitable for species that are important to recreational anglers.
• Climate change will leave New England vulnerable to invasion by invasive species.
