Scholars discuss global warming at forum

MILLBROOK — The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies and the Cornell University Cooperative Extension held a forum on Saturday, Oct. 22, that focused on how climate change has impacted the Hudson Valley and what global warming will do to the world’s regional resources, human health and the economy.Distinguished scholars gave individual presentations on issues facing the environment and participated in a moderated panel discussion.“We’ve been offering the Science and Management Forum series for three years,” said Lori Quillen, director of communications. “Right now, we offer two forums each year. The goal is to put relevant, cutting-edge science in the hands of citizens and regional decision-makers, and to better inform environmental management and stewardship. Forum presenters were selected based on their professional strengths and ability to speak to climate change impacts in the Hudson Valley.”The event was attended by about 140 people. The target audience was municipal officials and citizens who were concerned about the environment. Quillen said the forum had a strong attendance of people who sit on planning boards, conservation advisory commissions, environmental management councils, business owners and watershed councils.William Schlesinger, the president of the Cary Institute, started off the day presenting on the science of climate change. Schlesinger’s presentation was followed by Susan Riha, the director of New York State Water Resources Institute at Cornell University. Riha gave a presentation on managing water resources as the climate changes.Gary Lovett, a forest ecologist at the Cary Institute, discussed climate impacts on the forest and ecosystems.David Wolf, a professor of horticulture at Cornell University, talked about farming success in a changing climate.Perry Sheffield, a professor of pediatrics and preventative medicine at Mount Sinai, covered climate change and health.Eban Goodstein, the director of the Bard Center for Environmental Policy, presented on the topic of economic and policy impacts of climate change.Lastly, Allison Chatrchyan, an environment program leader at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County, acted as the moderator for the interactive panel discussion with the audience after all of the scholars gave their individual presentations.A video of the forum will be available for viewing at www.caryinstitute.org. The website also provides information about future events.A lecture by Fen Montaigne discussing how climate change has impacted the artic penguins will be held on Friday, Oct. 28, at 7 p.m.

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