Barriers and aids to developing adaptive capacity in the water sector: South florida water management case study
Book Chapter
Bolson, J, Treuer, G. (2014). Barriers and aids to developing adaptive capacity in the water sector: South florida water management case study
. 331-352. 10.4324/9780203085875-30
Bolson, J, Treuer, G. (2014). Barriers and aids to developing adaptive capacity in the water sector: South florida water management case study
. 331-352. 10.4324/9780203085875-30
Global climate change is under way. Even with sustained efforts to reduce climate change worldwide, Florida will likely experience significant effects of climate change in this century. Climate change impacts may have profound effects on Florida water resources and pose new challenges for the state’s unique water management system. Florida is likely to face changes in rainfall patterns, more intense tropical storms, more frequent or more severe droughts, higher sea levels, greater saltwater intrusion into aquifers, saltier estuaries, heightened demand for water and many changes in the state’s varied ecosystems. In order to respond to these potential impacts, both mitigation and adaptation strategies are needed to promote efficient use of limited resources. This chapter presents an overview of South Florida’s progress toward developing adaptation strategies in the water management sector. Barriers, which have hindered progress and bridges, which have facilitated progress with the development of adaptive capacity, are identified. Theoretical indicators of adaptive capacity are related to the development and implementation of adaptation planning. Within this framework, the chapter explores the critical roles of institutions as well as social, human and organizational capital for the integration of scientific information in building adaptive capacity to climate change. The chapter closes with a discussion of potential strategies for improving the likelihood of successful adaptation planning. These strategies may be applicable far beyond South Florida. The region’s use of climate action plans, developed through collaborations between adaptation practitioners, politicians, academics and other stakeholders, has been an important capacity building tool. Regular interactions with climate experts have improved the potential for the translation of complex information into terms that are relevant and actionable for water management decisions (Bolson and Broad, 2013). This capacity can promote the integration of scientific information needed for adaptive management.
