Sonoma County Regional Parks seeks community feedback on climate plan

To promote community wellbeing and a vibrant, resilient parks system Sonoma County Regional Parks is creating a Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (CARP) and seeks public input on future climate-related priorities and projects. The comprehensive plan will help the department address anticipated climate change impacts, such as extreme heat, drought, flooding, landslide, and wildfire risks, while reducing climate pollution and protecting Sonoma County’s natural and cultural resources. 

As part of this planning, Regional Parks wants to hear the community’s input on actions the department can take to meet these goals by completing a short survey at SoCoParksClimate.com.

Although Sonoma County’s parks and preserves are exposed to climate risks such as wildfires and extreme heat, they also play a crucial role in protecting adjacent communities – and the county as a whole – against these risks. To guide Regional Parks' planning for a future in the reality of a changing climate, the CARP will clarify the department's role in mitigating the impacts of climate change in Sonoma County and prioritize projects that help Regional Parks adapt and respond to climate change, with an equity lens that prioritizes the most vulnerable communities. The CARP, once completed, will also allow Regional Parks prioritize projects that reduce carbon emissions and provide data that will help the county pursue funding opportunities.

Multiple departments within the County of Sonoma are currently involved in planning efforts aimed at decreasing the county’s overall carbon emissions and reducing the impacts of future climate-related hazards. These efforts also focus on maximizing the removal and storage of carbon from the atmosphere, promoting environmental justice, and protecting the community from risks like wildfires. Sonoma County Regional Park's CARP will align with and build upon these existing initiatives.

In addition to the online survey, Regional Parks will conduct in-person public outreach and collect feedback at numerous park locations. All public input will be incorporated into a final CARP plan, which will be presented to the Board of Supervisors for approval in early 2024.

Visit SoCoParksClimate.com to learn more, take the survey, and sign up for future updates.

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Media Contact:
Sarah Phelps, Marketing Specialist
Sonoma County Regional Parks
Sarah.Phelps@sonoma-county.org
(707) 331-9027

Sonoma County Regional Parks provides essential opportunities for people to connect with nature. We contribute to the vibrancy and well-being of our community by expanding access to recreation experiences, serving as responsible stewards of cultural and natural resources, and ensuring that our parks are clean, safe and welcoming. Learn more at SonomaCountyParks.org.