Headwaters Summit 2008:
Re-visioning How We Use Water
in a Changing Climate
September 15-17, 2008
Missoula, Montana
Keynote Address
David James Duncan
September 15, 7:00 p.m.
University Center Theater
Goals:
- Share strategies to raise public awareness of the likely impacts of climate change on water resources in the Northern Rockies, and explore what these impacts mean for the people who live here;
- Discuss legislative priorities and other public policy options to respond to these impacts.
Participants:
Invited leaders of river advocacy and water user groups, including non-profit, public, and private interests; public officials interested in pursuing policy changes related to climate change and water; and funders looking to explore innovative water resource management in response to climate challenges.
Geographic Focus:
The headwaters states of the Northern Rockies: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming
Themes:
- Creating and encouraging efficiencies to make water go farther, reflecting both 21st century values (fish, wildlife, population growth) and 21st century supplies.
- Breaking down institutional barriers to change.
- Addressing the challenges and opportunities available to headwaters states to act as leaders in this “re-thinking” process for our ground and surface waters.
Outcomes:
- A post-Summit action plan will be circulated to all participants, identifying priority issues and responsive strategies including public education, networking, and legislative and other policy changes.
- We anticipate forming new strategic partnerships among organizations, policy makers, and individuals in neighboring states.