The Department of Fish and Game co-hosted the first of five national public information workshops on the Obama administration’s draft on climate change at CSUS in Modoc Hall on Tuesday, where more than 30 climate experts attended.

Gerry Barnhart, National Adaptation Strategy Coordinator, said four more public workshops will be held during the public comment period in January and February. The workshops are nationwide, reaching the South, North, East and West.

“These sessions are opportunities for the public and for the primary audience of the Strategy Natural Resource managers to learn more about the development and goals of the strategy,” said Barnhart.

The adaptation strategy consists of seven goals, including safeguarding fish, wildlife and plants. It will also help provide jobs, food, clean air and water, storm protection and recreation.

Amber Pairis, Climate Change Adviser of the State of California Department of Fish and Game, said the release of the public draft of the NFWPCAS is a major milestone for natural resources adaptation and clearly illustrates how state, federal, and tribal entities are working together to create a collective vision for how they respond.

“All of the entities involved in creating this strategy have different missions and responsibilities, but we are working collaboratively to find common ground and define a vision for safeguarding fish, wildlife, and plants for generations to come,” said Pairis.

Pairis said she finds it incredibly rewarding to be surrounded by colleagues and partners who are ready to “roll up their sleeves” and work together to find solutions to the challenges they are facing.

The following workshops will be held in Madison Wisc., Charleston S.C., Albany N.Y., and Washington D.C.

Mari Del Angel can be reached at [email protected].