Adaptation Planning for Climate Resilience: A Michigan Army National Guard Pilot Project

As established by the Department of Defense (DoD) Directive 4715.21 for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience, the DoD is updating current directives to consider the effects of climate change on its operations. The DoD is leading a pilot project to begin working with local communities on climate resilience planning. The National Guard Adaptation Planning Pilot Project has been implemented for Camp Grayling, Michigan. This report details an action plan developed for Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center - aimed at managing the impacts of climate change on the installation, as well as in the greater community.

Camp Grayling is a the largest National Guard installation in the country, and contributes nearly $50 million annually to the local economy.  The National Guard selected the Michigan Army National Guard for the pilot based on its ongoing sustainability and resiliency efforts, and its participation in the Michigan Climate Coalition - a statewide partnership of universities, businesses, non-profit organizations and government agencies.

For the pilot project, installation leaders, state and local agencies, and the public worked together to identify local risks and opportunities associated with climate change. Wildfire, extreme heat, drought, invasive species, and energy security threats are some of the key climate resilience challenges for the area. Wildfire is considered the number one natural hazard in the Grayling area in terms of both public safety and property damage with over 100 fires on average per year at Camp Grayling. 

This report assesses current conditions, documents planning efforts, and makes recommendations to improve resilience in the Fort Custer Training Center, Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, and Selfridge Air National Guard Base communities. Goals and actions are outlined under the areas of:

  • Natural Resources
  • Infrastructure
  • Economic Development
  • Emergency Response and Preparedness
  • Land Use

This project was implemented in accordance with 2013 Presidential Executive Order 13653 that included a goal for federal agencies to work with stakeholders at the state, local, private-sector and non-profit sector levels in an effort to improve overall climate preparedness and resilience.  

 

Publication Date: June 2016

Related Organizations:

  • U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)

Sectors:

Resource Category:

Resource Types:

  • Assessment
  • Planning guides

Impacts:

  • Air temperature
  • Precipitation changes
  • Wildfires

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