Fueling the Fire Global Warming, Fossil Fuels and the Fish and Wildlife of th

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Fueling the Fire Global Warming, Fossil Fuels and the Fish and Wildlife of the American West
National Wildlife Federation

October 2006

This report pulls together the latest scientific research about global warming impacts in the West and provides both personal and national policy solutions to combat this urgent crisis.

For millions of people, hunting, fishing and other outdoor traditions are an important part of life in the American West. But America’s addiction to fossil fuels is coming at an enormous price, one that threatens not only people but the fish, wildlife and ecosystems that are so fundamental to the region’s— and nation’s—economy, culture and values.

GLOBAL WARMING– A DIRE THREAT TO THE WEST’S WILDLIFE LEGACY

Above all, burning coal, oil and gas is the driving force behind global warming, which will dramatically alter the western landscape if left unchecked. Indeed, the growing body of evidence that global warming is already having an impact on natural systems is a strong warning: without meaningful action to reduce now emissions of carbon dioxide and other heat trapping gases responsible for the problem, the western U.S. faces greater risks ahead. For example:

• Global warming will cause a dramatic reduction in snowpack in some areas, placing considerable strain on the region’s water supply. Mountains in the Pacific Northwest are projected to lose as much as 88 percent of average snowpack by 2090; the Central Rocky Mountains could lose up to 75 percent; and parts of the Southern Rockies and the Sierra Nevada range could lose 98-100 percent.

• The past nine years (1997-2005) were the warmest years on record, and scientists project that heat waves will become more intense, more frequent and longer lasting during this century if global warming continues unabated.

• Drought conditions are expected to become more extreme in some areas as higher average temperatures contribute to increased evaporation rates. The current drought plaguing the West is the worst in 500 years and has drastically reduced available water resources for people and wildlife alike.

• Warmer average winter temperatures and less frost are expected to increase the rate, intensity and extent of invasive species, pest and disease outbreaks throughout the region. If warming trends continue as projected, forest die-offs due to pine bark beetles and other pests are expected to become even worse than the recent devastating epidemics. Hunting, fishing and other outdoor traditions are an important part of life in the American West. (Natural Resources Conservation Service)

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