Public Invited to Climate Change Impacts in Grand Teton National Park and the Greater Yellowstone Area Forum

Date: October 11, 2016
Contact: Denise Germann, 307 739 3393

Grand Teton National Park and National Parks Conservation Association are hosting an evening presentation, "Climate Change Impacts in Grand Teton National Park and the Greater Yellowstone Area" on Wednesday, October 19 at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson.The evening begins with a social and opportunity to learn about local community organizations, activities and initiatives for consumers to save energy and money, while protecting natural resources at 6:30 p.m. followed by a formal presentation at 7 p.m.The event is free and open to the public, with a cash bar and hors d'oeuvre provided by National Parks Conservation Association.

Grand Teton National Park Superintendent David Vela said, "We are committed to learn as much as we can about the impacts of climate change at Grand Teton National Park and respond to them as we work to achieve our stewardship responsibilities. The data that is being collected is quite compelling, and I encourage our partners and community members to consider attending the event on October 19."

The formal presentation will feature Yvon Chouinard,outdoor industry businessman and environmentalist, author, legendary climber and avid fly fisherman.He is founder and co-owner of Patagonia, Inc. and co-founder of 1% For the Planet, an alliance of businesses that contribute at least 1% of annual revenues to environmental causes.

Ann Rodman, branch chief of physical science and climate science with Yellowstone National Park, and Dr. Corinna Riginos, a Jackson-based ecologist and research associate for the Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative, will also speak.

The presentations will share examples of climate change effects in Grand Teton National Park and Greater Yellowstone Area.These changes include warming temperature trends, changing seasonal conditions, and likely future impacts on the region's fish, wildlife and natural resources. The presentation is anticipated to include the latest available data from throughout the area.The speakers have a unique way of communicating scientific information in non-technical terms.

"The National Parks Conservation Association is excited to partner with Grand Teton National Park to raise awareness about the potential impacts of climate change on park resources," said Grand Teton Program Manager Sharon Mader."This panel of highly regarded speakers will provide an excellent opportunity for our community to learn more about climate change," said Mader.

Grand Teton National Park is working to address climate change and be identified as a Climate Friendly Park.The park is working to measure park-based greenhouse gas emissions, provide awareness and education to park staff, partners, visitors and the local community about climate change, as well as develop a strategy that specifically addresses actions at the park to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and anticipate the impacts of climate change on park resources.