Climate change has a range of impacts on our national parks and resources. Higher temperatures caused by the greenhouse effect start a domino effect of other changes that make it hard to preserve the park structures, ecosystems, and activities as they are now. Climate impacts overlap and amplify each other, affecting multiple features of our parks at once. In the articles below, you can explore what some of those impacts are in the National Capital Area parks.
Sea Level Rise
Sea level rise is occurring on a global scale as the result of many climate change-induced factors, impacting 111 parks already.
Flooding and Extreme Weather
Climate change has had a profound effect on the weather. Flooding and other extreme weather harms park resources.
Plants
The changing climate increases stressors that weaken plant resilience, disrupting forest structure and ecosystem services.
Pollinators
Pollinators play a vital role in plant reproduction, making them fundamental to supporting healthy ecosystems.
Wildlife
Rising temperatures lower many wildlife species' survival rates due to changes in food, reproduction, and migration.
Park Recreation
The many activities visitors currently enjoy are facing new challenges from rising temperatures and the resulting impacts.
Cultural Resources
Cultural resources play an important role in the protection and interpretation of the nation's heritage, including in the National Capital.
NPS Photo / Graphic by 4C
Last updated: December 22, 2021