Region 7 

Climate Change 

Adaptation 

Implementation 

Plan

June 2013

US EPA REGION 7

DRAFT
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Disclaimer

To the extent this document mentions or discusses statutory or regulatory authority, it does so for 

informational purposes only. This document does not substitute for those statutes or regulations, and 

readers should consult the statutes or regulations to learn what they require. Neither this document, 

nor any part of it, is itself a rule or a regulation. Thus, it cannot change or impose legally binding 

requirements on EPA, States, the public, or the regulated community. Further, any expressed 

intention, suggestion or recommendation does not impose any legally binding requirements on EPA, 

States, tribes, the public, or the regulated community. Agency decision makers remain free to exercise 

their discretion in choosing to implement the actions described in this Plan. Such implementation is 

contingent upon availability of resources and is subject to change.
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Preface

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is committed to identifying and responding to the 

challenges that a changing climate poses to human health and the environment.

Scientific evidence demonstrates that the climate is changing at an increasingly rapid rate, outside the 

range to which society has adapted in the past. These changes can pose significant challenges to the 

EPA’s ability to fulfill its mission. The EPA must adapt to climate change if it is to continue fulfilling its 

statutory, regulatory and programmatic requirements. The Agency is therefore anticipating and 

planning for future changes in climate to ensure it continues to fulfill its mission of protecting human 

health and the environment even as the climate changes. 

In February 2013, the EPA released its draft Climate Change Adaptation Plan to the public for review 

and comment. The plan relies on peer-reviewed scientific information and expert judgment to identify 

vulnerabilities to EPA’s mission and goals from climate change. The plan also presents 10 priority 

actions that EPA will take to ensure that its programs, policies, rules, and operations will remain 

effective under future climatic conditions. The priority placed on mainstreaming climate adaptation 

within EPA complements efforts to encourage and mainstream adaptation planning across the entire 

federal government.

Following completion of the draft Climate Change Adaptation Plan, each EPA National Environmental 

Program Office, all 10 Regional Offices, and several National Support Offices developed a Climate 

Adaptation Implementation Plan to provide more detail on how it will carry out the work called for in 

the agency-wide plan. Each Implementation Plan articulates how the office will integrate climate 

adaptation into its planning and work in a manner consistent and compatible with its goals and 

objectives.

Taken together, the Implementation Plans demonstrate how the EPA will attain the 10 agency-wide 

priorities presented in the Climate Change Adaptation Plan. A central element of all of EPA’s plans is to 

build and strengthen its adaptive capacity and work with its partners to build capacity in states, tribes, 

and local communities. EPA will empower its staff and partners by increasing their awareness of ways 

that climate change may affect their ability to implement effective programs, and by providing them 

with the necessary data, information, and tools to integrate climate adaptation into their work.

Each Program and Regional Office’s Implementation Plan contains an initial assessment of the 

implications of climate change for the organization’s goals and objectives. These “program 

vulnerability assessments” are living documents that will be updated as needed to account for new 

knowledge, data, and scientific evidence about the impacts of climate change on EPA’s mission. The 

plan then identifies specific priority actions that the office will take to begin addressing its 

vulnerabilities and mainstreaming climate change adaptation into its activities. Criteria for the 

selection of priorities are discussed. An emphasis is placed on protecting the most vulnerable people 
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and places, on supporting the development of adaptive capacity in the tribes, and on identifying clear 

steps for ongoing collaboration with tribal governments.

Because EPA’s Programs and Regions and partners will be learning by experience as they mainstream 

climate adaptation planning into their activities, it will be essential to evaluate their efforts in order to 

understand how well different approaches work and how they can be improved. Each Implementation 

Plan therefore includes a discussion of how the organization will regularly evaluate the effectiveness of 

its adaptation efforts and make adjustments where necessary.

The set of Implementation Plans are a sign of EPA’s leadership and commitment to help build the 

nation’s adaptive capacity that is so vital to the goal of protecting human health and the environment. 

Working with its partners, the Agency will help promote a healthy and prosperous nation that is 

resilient to a changing climate.

Bob Perciasepe

Deputy Administrator

September 2013
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Table of Contents

Program Vulnerability Assessment 6

I. Background 6

II. Discussion of Climate Change Impacts in Region 7 6

III. Region 7’s Known Vulnerabilities on Climate Change Impacts 7

1. Goal 1: Taking Action Climate Change and Improving Air Quality 7

2. Goal 2: Protecting America’s Waters 10

3. Goal 3: Cleaning Up Communities and Advancing Sustainable Development 14

4. Goal 4: Ensuring the Safety of Chemicals and Preventing Pollution 14

5. Goal 5: Enforcing Environmental Laws 15

6. Facilities and Operations 15

7. Vulnerable Populations 15

8. Emerging Issues 18

IV. Summary Table of Climate Change Vulnerabilities 19

Region 7 Priority Actions 24

Region 7 Monitoring and Evaluation of Priority Actions 28

Conclusion 38

References 39

Appendix A: Descriptive Priority Action Matrix
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Program Vulnerability Assessment

I. Background

This assessment contains a discussion of EPA Region 7 and the climate change impacts affecting the 

four-state region, as well as an examination of the risks they pose to key Region 7 Programs. It builds 

on the work presented in Part 2 of EPA’s Agency-wide Plan, as well as the individual assessments 

completed by various Program Offices. It is structured by the goals in EPA’s FY 2011-2015 Strategic 

Plan, and includes a table that summarizes the programmatic vulnerabilities discussed in the narrative. 

These goals include:

Goal 1: Taking Action on Climate Change and Improving Air Quality

Goal 2:Protecting America’s Waters

Goal 3:Cleaning Up Communities and Advancing Sustainable Development

Goal 4: Ensuring the Safety of Chemical s and Preventing Pollution

Goal 5: Enforcing Environmental laws

Region 7 intends to fulfill its mission, despite the consequence of a changing climate. It will stay on 

course for meeting its goals, while building more resilient and climate-responsive programs. We will 

work with our partners to meet the challenges of climate change through frequent, effective 

coordination and decision-support. 

II. Discussion of Climate Change Impacts in Region 7

Region 7 is located in the climate regions identified by the U.S. Global Change Research Program

(GCRP): as the Great Plains and Midwest. The Region is bisected by the two climate regions along the 

state lines separating Nebraska from Iowa and Kansas from Missouri. The GCRP designates the states 

of Kansas and Nebraska as Great Plains, and the states of Iowa, and Missouri as the Midwest climate 

region.

EPA Region 7 is made up of two distinctly different sets of landscapes, as well as significant differences 

in population bases, and economic sectors making our response to climate change particularly 

challenging in its complexity. Our lands are managed by four states, nine tribal nations, and a host of 

federal agencies. These entities have diverse and often competing interests that include agriculture, 

energy development and production, environmental protection and stewardship, manufacturing, 

recreation, tourism, and commercial development. The roughly 13.8 million people in the region are 

concentrated in eight metropolitan areas including St. Louis, Kansas City, Des Moines, Wichita, 

Springfield, Omaha, Lincoln and Cedar Rapids. The remainder of the population is located in relatively 

isolated cities and towns often separated by large distances dominated by agricultural land-use. 
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The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), in its Fourth Assessment report in 2007i,

concluded that global warming due to human activities since 1750 is unequivocal. The report also 

indicates that climate variability and warming over the past century has already had measurable 

effects in the region, including increased temperatures, earlier timing of spring events, pole-ward and 

upward shifts in plant and animal ranges, drought, declining ecological health, heavy precipitation 

events, and habitat loss. One of the challenges in developing a climate change vulnerability 

assessment and priority actions is that the predictions (many of which are listed above) vary widely and

so do the timeframes in which these impacts are predicted to occur. In the priority actions matrix, 

Region 7 briefly addresses and accounts for these variations. Nevertheless, climate change impacts are 

expected to intensify as greenhouse gases build up in the atmosphere, and continue to threaten our 

resources, agricultural, ecosystems and human health throughout the 21st century. 

Because of the diversity and wide range of climate change impacts in Region 7, priority actions 

included in this are tailored to meet different needs based on eco-regions, other geographic 

considerations, population, economic activity, a specific impact, or a vulnerable population. 

The following suite of climate change impacts and their affects on Region 7 Programs are discussed in 

the sections below. They may be discussed individually, or in combinations based on the focus of the 

Strategic Plan Goal under consideration.

1. Increased tropospheric ozone pollution

2. Increased concentrations of particulate matter in the air

3. Increased degradation of indoor air 

4. Increasing extreme temperatures

5. Increasing heavy precipitation events

6. Increased water temperatures 

7. Decreasing precipitation days and increasing drought intensity 

8. Increasing risk of floods

9. Earlier timing of spring events - define

10. Increase in and changing mix of pests*

*Includes weeds, insects, mold, fungus, and disease

III. Region 7’s Known Vulnerabilities to Climate Change Impacts

1. Goal 1: Taking Action on Climate Change and Improving Air Quality

A. Tropospheric ozone pollution is likely to increase in certain regions due to the effects of 

climate change. Tropospheric, or ground-level ozone, is created by photochemical reactions of 

short-lived pollutants in the atmosphere. Emissions from industrial facilities, electric utilities, 

motor vehicles, chemical solvents, controlled agricultural burning, and oil and gas production 

are some of the major sources of these pollutants in Region 7. High temperatures and regional 

air stagnation associated with climate change may lead to more ozone formation, even with the 
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same level of emissions. Some estimates have these changes occurring now. While 

tropospheric ozone is higher in urban areas, some rural areas with oil and gas production 

activities in Region 7 may also have high levels based on recent experiences in Region 8 

regarding this industry. Additionally, Region 7 has observed increased ozone as a result of 

prescribed burning of rangeland in advance of the growing season. Controlled burn events 

release volatile organic compounds, oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide at low altitudes. 

Controlled burning of agriculture and rangeland is applied in advance of the growing season to 

prepare the land for spring agriculture growth. As growing season shifts are an effect of climate 

change, the shift has the potential to lengthen the ozone season by increasing the months of 

the year when conditions are conducive to the formation of troposphere ozone. Vulnerable 

populations may be at a higher risk for health effects from exposure to ozone.

Increases in tropospheric ozone due to climate change could require greater pollution controls 

to attain or maintain the ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). Region 7 works 

with partners at state, local, and tribal levels to meet this standard through State 

Implementation Plans (SIPs) and other measures. These efforts may need to be adjusted as

climate change progresses. Although Region 7’s adaptive capacity with respect to this impact is 

dependent on national standard setting efforts, there are some points of leverage and 

voluntary actions that can be utilized.

B. Particulate Matter (PM) levels (both fine and course) are likely to be affected through 

changes in frequency and intensity of wildfires, controlled burns and high winds. There is 

evidence indicating that climate change will affect PM levels through changes in the frequency 

or intensity of wildfires, ii and the effects of drought on the land. The Intergovernmental Panel 

on Climate Change (IPCC) has reported with very high confidence that in North America, 

disturbances such as wildfires are increasing and are likely to intensify in a warmer future with 

drier soils and longer growing seasons. This could complicate EPA Region 7 efforts to protect 

public health and the environment from PM pollution. Vulnerable populations may be 

especially at risk from increased exposure to PM.

Certain areas of Region 7 utilize controlled burning of rangeland to reduce invasive vegetation 

and prepare the soil for new grass production for cattle grazing. Climate change has the 

potential to affect how prescribed burning is utilized in rangeland management necessitating 

changes in the timing of burning events to coincide with favorable conditions associated with 

precipitation, winds, temperature, and the spring growing season. Changes in climate will 

result in revised burning schedules and has the potential to impact air quality that effects

vulnerable populations. Additionally, drought conditions associated with climate change can 

promote wind-borne dust or PM during high wind events. Wind-borne PM is principally 

associated with dry soil conditions and lack of adequate vegetative cover. Due to extensive 

agricultural activity in Region 7, the area is very susceptible to wind-borne PM in the early 

spring during the period between land preparation (tilling, fertilizing, and planting). During this

period, the top soil is more susceptible to being distributed in the air during high wind events 
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and the problem is exacerbated if the soil is dry as a result of low precipitation or elevated 

temperatures which can be associated with climate change. 

Region 7’s adaptive capacity with respect to this impact may be limited. Increases in PM as a 

result of wildfires, controlled burns, and high winds may be considered “exceptional events,” 

which are exempt from certain regulatory actions under the Clean Air Act and the National 

Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Additionally, the challenge of fire mitigation and 

firefighting falls on national, regional, and local agencies with authorities peripheral of EPA’s 

jurisdiction. However, there may be air monitoring or risk communication opportunities that 

the Region can utilize to assist other agencies in adapting to this impact.”

C. Climate change may worsen the quality of indoor air and increase exposure to contaminants. 

Climate change may worsen existing indoor environmental problems, and introduce new ones 

due to temperature increases and an increased frequency or severity of extreme weather 

events. For example, warmer temperatures may affect the emergence, evolution and 

geographic ranges of pests, infectious agents and disease vectorsiii. This may lead to shifting 

patterns of indoor exposure to pesticides as occupants and building owners respond to new 

infestations. Additionally, heavy precipitation events may contribute to increases in indoor 

dampness and building deterioration, increasing occupants’ exposure to mold and other 

biological contaminants, as well as emissions from building materials. 

Residents may weatherize buildings to increase comfort and indoor environmental quality in 

addition to saving energy. Although in general these actions should be encouraged, this may 

lead to a reduction in ventilation and an increase in indoor environmental pollutants unless 

measures are taken to preserve or improve indoor air quality. EPA has developed practical 

guidance for improving or maintaining indoor environmental quality during home energy 

upgrades or remodeling in single-family homes and schools. EPA’s guidance and protocols may 

need to be revised to include state and local considerations for projected climatic changes. In 

addition, these programs may need to increase partnerships with other agencies to address 

training needs and workforce development for building owners, managers, and others, as well as 

develop new tracking mechanisms to assess the effectiveness of weatherization and remodeling 

techniques as they relate to indoor environmental quality.

Residents may also spend more time indoors, and become more prone to health risks from 

indoor environmental conditions. Public health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, 

may increaseiv

. For example, more people may be exposed to indoor air contaminants in homes 

in low-income areas because they have access to fewer resources to make adjustments to their 

dwellings, and because these homes tend to have greater occupant density.

Region 7 can utilize various EPA programs, tools, resources, and partnerships to adapt to this 

impact. For example, Region 7’s Radon Program, Healthy Homes, and Healthy Schools initiatives 

are avenues through which public education could occur.
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D. Climate change may affect the response of ecosystems to the atmospheric deposition of 

sulfur, nitrogen, and mercury. While there is limited scientific evidence on this topic, additional 

research is underway to better understand how patterns in the atmospheric deposition of 

sulfur, nitrogen, and mercury with projected changes in the climate and carbon cycle will affect 

ecosystem growth, species changes, surface water chemistry, and mercury methylation (a 

natural process which makes mercury biologically available to fish and humans) and 

bioaccumulation. The potential impacts could have consequences for the effectiveness of

ecosystem protection from Region 7’s emissions reduction programs. 

Because of current fish consumption advisory programsv

, there is already heightened 

awareness of the issue of mercury contamination in lakes, rivers and streams in Region 7. This 

may present an opportunity to adapt to the impact through partnerships and public education.

Region 7 may want to provide additional educational focus for populations where subsistence 

fishing is pervasive.

2. Goal 2: Protecting America’s Waters

A. Climate change may affect EPA’s ability to protect and restore watersheds, aquatic 

ecosystems and wetlands. Warmer air temperatures will result in warmer water, potentially 

leading to low oxygen levels and hypoxia, harmful algal blooms, and changes in the toxicity of 

some pollutants. Aquatic life may be replaced by other species better adapted to the warmer 

water, and this process may occur at an uneven pace disrupting aquatic system health and 

allowing non-indigenous and/or invasive species to become establishedvi. Additionally, 

temperature increases may lead to water losses from increased evapotranspiration rates. 

Heavier precipitation may increase flood risk, expand floodplain areas, increase the variability 

of stream flows, and increase erosion from high water velocity. An increase in storm event 

frequency and intensity can result in more nutrients, pathogens, and toxins being washed into 

water bodies, especially if they result in sewer overflows and wastewater bypasses.

Drought, changing patterns of precipitation, as well as increased evapotranspiration, may lead 

to reduced stream flow later in the summer, altering aquatic environments and increasing 

impairments. These impacts may also threaten certain aquatic ecosystems that are found the 

region, such as prairie potholes of Iowa, and floodplains of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, 

reducing the habitat they provide for plants and animals

vii.

These climate impacts may have adverse effects on Region 7’s work to protect water quality, 

and the health of watersheds, aquatic ecosystems and wetlands. Additional water bodies may 

have trouble meeting water quality standards and may need to be listed as impaired. Nonpoint 

pollution control programs may need to be adjusted to reflect changing conditions. The 

scientific basis of water quality standard development and implementation could be threatened 

by shifting baselines. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) considerations may need to be 
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expanded to provide greater protections. Finally, the economic and cultural practices of tribal 

communities may be impacted.

These program vulnerabilities may require greater use of biological monitoring and assessment 

techniques, management techniques that build resilience into aquatic environments, and the 

management of wetlands for storm water control purposes and to buffer the impacts of 

drought. Region 7’s adaptive capacity with respect to this impact is varied, and there may be 

numerous points of leverage and opportunities that can be explored.

B. Drinking water, wastewater and storm water infrastructure may be affected. Heavier 

precipitation may increase the risk of floods, expand floodplains, and cause more nutrients, 

pathogens, and toxins to be washed into water bodiesviii. This could damage or overwhelm 

water infrastructure, and lead to releases of waterborne diseases and pathogens. In urban 

areas, storm water collection and management systems may need to be redesigned to handle 

the increased capacity. Low stream flows due to drought, earlier spring runoff, reduction in 

snowpack (snowpack in the mountains and upstream effects summertime flows in rivers 

coursing across Region 7 including the Missouri River, both Platte Rivers, the Loup River, the 

Little Blue River and the Solomon River), and increased evapotranspiration may affect drinking 

water intakes and wastewater outfalls. Uncontrolled and controlled burning events also scorch 

soils, leading to more runoff and erosion. Drinking water and wastewater utilities will need to 

consider these climate change impacts and the concept of non-stationaryix in their planning 

activities. Additionally, vulnerable populations may have problems accessing safe drinking 

water due to these infrastructure challenges.

The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF) may be stressed as the 

need for additional investments in water infrastructure increases. Region 7 and its State 

partners may need to re-prioritize project requests due to increasing and changing 

needs at the local level. Tribes and other vulnerable populations may require special 

considerations with respect to climate change and water infrastructure challenges. 

Region 7’s work to promote green infrastructurex in urban areas may be more in 

demand to serve multiple purposes: manage storm water runoff, flood mitigation, air 

quality management, and urban heat island reduction. Additional resources and funding 

may be required to address this significant impact in Region 7.

C. The quality and availability of safe drinking water may be affected. Drought, changing 

patterns of precipitation, and increased evapotranspiration may result in changes to the 

availability and demand for drinking water. Competing uses of water in the agriculture, 

industry, and energy production sectors may also increase. These factors may shift demand to 

underground sources of water, or prompt development of reservoirs or other water retention 

strategies.

Wildfires can foul water and challenge water-treatment facilities. Heavy precipitation 

events may exacerbate the problem, leading to more runoff of sediment and other 
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contaminants into drinking water sources, requiring additional treatment. Drinking 

water intakes and wastewater outfalls could be overwhelmed or damaged, causing an 

increased incidence of waterborne diseases and pathogens. Increased water 

temperatures may also lead to an increased growth of algae and microbes that may 

affect drinking water quality.

Various Region 7 Programs protect drinking water quality, and are concerned with the 

availability of water supplies. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 

discharge permits for wastewater and storm water from municipal and other facilities may 

need to be adjusted to maintain water quality. As the need for water retention grows, NEPA 

reviews of water supply and storage projects may increase. There may also be a need to 

enhance or construct wetlands, requiring permits.

Limited water availability and drought in some regions may require drinking water providers to 

reassess the security of their water supplies, and consider alternative pricing, allocation, and 

water conservation options. Region 7’s work to promote voluntary actions through the 

Sustainable Water Infrastructure programs, Climate Ready Water Utilities initiatives, and 

WaterSense, may be more in demand. Adapting to this impact may be compromised by a lack 

of resources. 

D. Agricultural production demands on ground and surface water resources may increase. 

Agriculture is the main economic activity and greatest sector user of water resources in Region 

7 states. The agriculture industry relies heavily on precipitation, surface and ground water 

resources to maintain production of food and feed products. Drought and changing patterns of 

precipitation may result in farmers, ranchers, and land owners relying more heavily on water 

from surface runoff and the ground to maintain agriculture-related production. This increase 

demand will result in reduced stream flows and reduction in water table levels which could 

adversely affect water quality and availability for human consumption and ecosystems.

Ground and surface water resources are managed and controlled under a variety of state and 

federal oversight entities. These include state boards and regional cooperatives or districts that 

manage ground water withdrawl and surface water diversion within the state that is used for 

crop irrigation and drinking water. At the federal level agencies, such as the Bureau of Land 

Management (BLM) and the US Army Corp of Engineers, manage land activities and navigable 

waters of the United States both of which have a significant impact on water availability to the 

regional agriculture sector and drinking water systems.

The eastern states of Region 7 (Iowa and Missouri) located in the climate region defined by the 

GCRP as the Midwest rely predominantly on precipitation and surface water to support 

agriculture production. As the quantity and timing of precipitation varies as a result of climate 

change, the agriculture industry may not be able to rely on precipitation to provide the water 

necessary to sustain crop production. In response, a greater reliance on surface water and 

ground water may occur which will reduce the ground water levels. As the industry relies more 
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on ground water, there is greater potential for contamination and degradation of the resource 

due to the greater number of wells and decrease in ground water volume. Increased wells 

provide opportunities for surface contaminants to enter the resource, through poor well design 

or well completion. Ground water degradation also occurs as the resource is depleted and 

dissolved solids make up a greater percentage of the resource volume. In Missouri, where the 

majority of communities, and residents outside of municipalities, rely on ground water for 

drinking water, a reduction in ground water level and quality will negatively impact the public’s 

access to affordable clean drinking water.

The western states of Region 7 (Kansas and Nebraska) located in the climate region defined by 

the GCRP as the Great Plains rely predominantly on ground water and to a lesser extent 

precipitation to support agriculture production. Nebraska ranks first nationally with over 8.5 

million acres of irrigated landxi, and Kansas ranks 7th with over 2.7 million acres of irrigated 

landxii. As the Great Plains region is more arid than the Midwest region, decreased 

precipitation is expected for this region under nearly all climate change modeling scenarios. 

Consequently, we anticipate that the agriculture sector in these two states will rely on

groundwater resource to an even greater degree than currently to sustain current levels of 

agriculture production.

The main ground water resource in western Nebraska and Kansas is the Ogallala Aquifer, one of 

the largest aquifer systems in the world and the principal geologic unit of the High Plains 

Aquifer System. In 2005, the USGS estimated that total water withdraw from the aquifer 

amounted to approximately 9% since 1950, or 2.5 million acre feet of water from the aquifer’s 

total water storage capacity of 2.9 billion acre feetxiii. The Ogallala Aquifer, like most 

underground sources of water, depends on precipitation to recharge, and the rate of recharge 

does not match the rate of withdraw. In areas of western Nebraska, natural resource 

management districts have been put in place to regulate the number of wells and the amount 

of water than can be withdrawn from the aquifer as these areas have measured substantial 

reductions in the depth that fresh water can be accessed in the aquiferxiv. Like Missouri, 

communities located in Kansas and Nebraska depend almost entirely on ground water for 

public drinking water systems. In rural areas of both Nebraska and Kansas, we find that the 

vast majority of homes utilize ground water as the predominant source of water used in the 

home. As ground water resource are utilized more extensively (especially by the agriculture 

sector), the resource will become less available for use as a drinking and public water resource. 

The Region 7 States and federal entities servicing the agriculture sector need to consider 

how greater reliance on ground and surface water resources will impact the resource as 

a result of climate change, as well as the impact on communities that share the ground 

water resource. We anticipate that Region 7’s resources supporting public drinking 

water systems will be in greater demand as public utilities spend greater resources 

accessing clean water, and/or developing systems that reuse water. Additionally, the 

Agency may find it necessary to develop new programs to ensure the safety of ground 
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water resources from contamination due to increased pumping and an increased 

number of wells. 

3. Goal 3: Cleaning Up Communities and Advancing Sustainable Development

A. Contaminated Sites and Waste Management may be threatened. Heavy precipitation events,

floods, and wildfires may threaten contaminated sites in Region 7 and the remedies put in place 

to cleanup and prevent releases of hazardous substances. Resource Conservation and Recovery 

Act (RCRA) activities to treat, store, or dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste may also 

be threatened. Extreme temperatures and other weather events may lead to a loss of electrical 

power, affecting the operations of treatment and waste management facilities. Landfill capacity 

may be insufficient to handle surges in hazardous and municipal wastes from floods and other 

extreme weather events.

Region 7’s Superfund, RCRA, and Brownfield programs may need to alter chemical containment 

strategies to ensure protection of groundwater and adjacent sites. RCRA permitting activities 

may increase or requirements may need to be updated to reflect current and future climate 

impacts. Current scientific monitoring and sampling protocols on sites may no longer be 

effective and may require adjustments. The adaptive capacity to this impact is largely 

dependent on available funding and resources, but there may be points of leverage or 

innovative technologies that could be utilized for site remediation or materials management.

B. Climate change may lead to an increased need for emergency response. Due to an increase in 

heavy precipitation events, floods, and wildfires, as well as other extreme weather events like 

severe winds and tornados that may be exacerbated by climate change, Region 7’s emergency 

response and disaster recovery efforts may increase. Subsequently, this may lead to limitations 

in the Region’s response capabilities due to staff and financial resource constraints. The 

adaptive capacity to this impact is dependent on available funding and resources and the 

occurrence frequency of natural disasters regionally and nationally.

4. Goal 4: Ensuring the safety of Chemicals and Preventing Pollution

A. The ability to protect human health and ecosystems from chemical risks may be affected.

Climate change may affect exposures to a wide range of chemicals because of changing 

environmental conditions or use patterns. For example, it may lead to increased pest pressure 

and a changing mix of pests, affecting how, when, where, and what pesticides are used. The 

earlier timing of spring events, like increased temperatures and the emergence of leaves, 

flowers, and pollinators, may lead to a longer growing season and an increase in the quantity of 

pesticides usedxv. Other climate impacts like drought, extreme temperatures, and heavy 

precipitation may lead to abandoned fields, changes in crop mixes and farming methods, and 

increase runoff into streams and rivers, increasing exposures. There may also be an increase in 

spraying and other chemical use to control mosquitoes and rodents in response to certain 
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health threats. Vulnerable populations, particularly children, may be at a higher risk for health 

effects from exposure to pesticides.

Region 7’s efforts to reduce exposures may be affected by these impacts. There may also be an 

increase in requests for emergency exemptions for unregistered pesticides, state/local special 

need registrations, as well as requests to approve additional or new end uses of registered 

products. These requests are handled by EPA Headquarters, but Region 7 monitors and 

supports them as appropriate to ensure a timely response. Additionally, Region 7’s work to 

promote Integrated Pest Management and other sustainable agriculture practices may be more 

in demand. Region 7’s adaptive capacity to this impact is largely dependent on available 

funding and resources.

5. Goal 5: Enforcing Environmental Laws

A. Climate change may affect environmental monitoring and sampling in various media. Heavy 

precipitation events, floods, and wildfires, as well as other extreme weather events like severe 

winds and tornados that may be exacerbated by climate change, could cause damage to Region 

7’s environmental monitoring assets and prevent access. This impact could delay our efforts to 

ensure compliance with environmental requirements by regulated entities, and take effective 

enforcement action in case of violations. Adapting to this impact may require a shift in 

resources and funding.

6. Facilities and Operations

A. Operations of Region 7 facilities, including water and energy use, may be affected. Increased

temperatures may impact cooling requirements in the summer, but may decrease the need for 

heat in the winter. The operation of Region 7 facilities could also be affected by water 

shortages due to drought, electric power interruptions due to extreme weather events like 

heavy precipitation, tornadoes, and wildfires that affect local air quality and the health of 

personnel. Drought and extreme temperatures may also make it more difficult to maintain 

green infrastructure, upon which Region 7 relies for storm water management services, among 

other things, at its Regional Headquarters building in Lenexa, KS.

Region 7’s adaptive capacity to this impact is reliant on resources to purchase available water 

and energy, and avoid the health impacts of reduced air quality. Personnel also have the 

capacity to work remotely for an extended period of time. Depending on the circumstances, 

this may alleviate some of the vulnerabilities to the operation of Region 7 facilities.

7. Vulnerable Populations

Partnerships with Tribes. EPA values its unique government-to-government relationship with Indian 

tribes in planning and decision making. This trust responsibility has been established over time and is 

further expressed in the 1984 EPA Policy for the Administration of Environmental Programs on Indian 
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Reservations and the 2011 Policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes. These policies 

recognize and support the sovereign decision-making authority of tribal governments.

Supporting the development of adaptive capacity among tribes is a priority for the EPA. Tribes are 

particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to the integral nature of the environment 

within their traditional lifeways and culture. There is a strong need to develop adaptation strategies 

that promote sustainability and reduce the impact of climate change on Indian tribes.

EPA engaged tribes through a formal consultation process in the development of the Agency’s Climate 

Change Adaptation Plan. Tribes identified some of the most pressing issues as erosion, temperature 

change, drought and various changes in access to and quality of water. Tribes recommended a number 

of tools and strategies to address these issues, including improving access to data and information; 

supporting baseline research to better track the effects of climate change; developing community-level 

education and awareness materials; and providing financial and technical support. At the same time, 

tribes challenged EPA to coordinate climate change activities among federal agencies so that resources 

are better leveraged and administrative burdens are reduced. 

This Implementation Plan identifies specific steps that will be taken to partner with tribal governments 

on an ongoing basis to increase their adaptive capacity and address their adaptation-related priorities. 

These collaborative efforts will benefit from the expertise provide by our tribal partners and the 

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) they possess. TEK is a valuable body of knowledge in assessing 

the current and future impacts of climate change and has been used by tribes for millennia as a 

valuable tool to adapt to changing surroundings. Consistent with the principles in the 1984 Indian 

Policy, TEK is viewed as a complementary resource that can inform planning and decision-making.

Networks and partnerships already in place will be used to assist tribes with climate change issues, 

including Regional Tribal Operations Committees, the Region 7 Office of Tribal Affairs, the Institute for 

Tribal Environmental Professionals and the Indian General Assistance Program (IGAP). Additionally, 

efforts will be made to coordinate with other Regional and Program Offices in EPA, since climate 

change has many impacts that transcend media and regional boundaries. Transparency and 

information sharing will be a focus, in order to leverage activities already taking place within EPA 

Offices and tribal governments.

Vulnerable populations may be at a higher risk from climate change impacts. Certain parts of the 

population, such as children, the elderly, minorities and the poor, persons with underlying medical 

conditions and disabilities, those with limited access to information, and tribal and indigenous 

populations, can be especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Also, certain geographic 

locations and communities are particularly vulnerable, such as those located in flood-prone areas. One 

of the principles guiding EPA’s efforts to integrate climate adaptation into its programs, policies and 

rules calls for its adaptation plans to prioritize helping people, places and infrastructure that are most 
Draft - June 14, 2013

17

vulnerable to climate impacts, and to be designed and implemented with meaningful involvement 

from all parts of society. 

This Implementation Plan identifies key programmatic vulnerabilities and the priority actions that will 

be taken to address those vulnerabilities over time. As the work called for in this Plan is conducted, the 

communities and demographic groups most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change will be 

identified. The Agency will then work in partnership with these communities to increase their adaptive 

capacity and resilience to climate change impacts. These efforts will be informed by experiences with 

previous extreme weather events (e.g., Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy) and the subsequent 

recovery efforts.

Today, rural agriculture communities face an array of challenges. In 1950, 82 percent of the world’s 

population was ruralxvi. Rural communities now comprise 17 percent of the population and about 80 

percent of the country’s total land areaxvii. Such resource-based economies are vulnerable to the 

impacts of commodity prices, technological changes, land value dynamics, and other market 

influences. Many of these communities are experiencing unemployment, poverty, population loss, the 

aging of their workforces, and increasing demands for social services with fewer dollars to pay for 

them. In some rural areas, these are not new trends, but generations-old issues. 

As a result of such economic impacts and challenges, estimates indicate a continued decline in our 

rural populations through 2050. Yet we have seen strength in agricultural production supports other 

parts of the economy, particularly in rural communities. Farms and ranches buy fertilizer and seed, 

invest in farm machinery, contract with custom operators, and support the many local businesses that 

come together to serve farms and farming families, including restaurants and health care service 

providers. High levels of production also benefit other businesses like grain elevators, bio-fuel 

refineries, and processed food manufacturers. According to the industry input-output accounts for 

2010, every additional dollar of final output in the agriculture, fishing, and hunting industry raises gross 

output across all industries by approximately $2.20xviii.

Climate change has the potential to negatively influence the livelihood of our agriculture communities 

to a much greater extent than other vulnerable populations. Residents of remote communities have 

limited access to non-agriculture jobs and services. Alternative employment options can be limited 

due to long, expensive commutes. People who don’t have access to personal vehicles or who do not 

drive, such as low-income residents and senior citizens, lack mobility and could have even less access 

to alternate jobs, healthcare, and other services. 

Region 7 populations living with asthma are also a priority. For example, St. Louis is considered a 

national asthma “hot spot”. Climate change, specifically with respect to air quality (i.e. ozone and 

particulate matter), indoor air quality, exposure to pests, and changes in heat and humidity will 

inevitably exacerbate complications associated with asthma. We will continue to monitor this 

vulnerable population and others like it as we adapt and respond to the challenges associated with 

climate change.
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18

Addressing these challenges is critical, particularly within the Midwest and Region 7, where agriculture 

plays such a vital role in our state economies

There may be other vulnerable populations (which may ultimately be defined by the spatial nature of 

climate change impacts) who have yet to be identified. This may include metropolitan areas in harm’s 

way due to an increasing risk of floods, rural towns that may be at risk of losing access to safe drinking 

water due to a reduction ground water levels, or agricultural communities facing a threat to their 

livelihood due to extreme drought. Over time, the most vulnerable populations in Region 7 may 

change as the impacts of climate change become more pronounced or shift. Identifying who the most 

vulnerable populations are at this time or may be in the future will be an ongoing challenge. They will 

need to be defined in the context of climate change impacts, but also in terms of socioeconomic and 

natural resource considerations. 

8. Emerging Issues

During Region 7’s internal planning sessions on climate adaptation, a number of emerging issues were 

discussed that require additional scientific research before they can be considered risks to the work of 

Region 7 programs. They include the following:

• Wind and extreme wind events might be increasing, affecting air quality, and the migration and 

deposition of pesticides and other pollutants population areas and ecosystems

• The emergence of cyanobacteria toxins in surface waters might be increasing due to increased 

water temperature – this may affect drinking water, requiring more treatment by water utilities

• Tropospheric ozone pollution levels could increase in rural areas which could cause damage to 

crops- causing lost production and result in increasing efforts to use chemicals such as fertilizers 

and pesticides to compensate for such losses

• Unconventional energy production development might increase, placing greater demand on 

water resources, creating additional potential for groundwater contamination, and 

exacerbating climate change impacts

• Electric system reliability may decrease due to lack of cooling water availability as a result of 

low river water events

• Releases from industrial activities, rail cars, and on the road commercial truck traffic accidents

associated with extreme weather events 
Draft - June 14, 2013

19

IV. Summary Table of Climate Change Vulnerabilities

Climate Change 

Impact R7 Programmatic Impacts

Climate Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional Program 

would be Impacted

Focus of Associated Region 7 Program Priority Actions

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

1.1 Increased frequency 

and intensity of wildfires 3

Protecting the public health and the 

environment by approving state programs 

to meet NAAQS and respond to natural 

disasters

Continue to partner with local, state and 

tribal stakeholders to optimize fire 

contingency plans, including SMPs and a 

new National Fire Policy, to maximize 

prevention and minimize impacts

1.2 Increasing extreme 

temperatures 2

Protect public health by promoting healthy 

indoor environments through voluntary 

programs and guidance

Maintain and increase knowledge of 

increasing health risks in indoor 

environments as a result of climate 

change

Promote energy efficiency and energy 

star products & renewable energy 

strategies

1.3 Increasing heavy 

precipitation events 3

Protecting the public health and the 

environment by approving state programs 

to meet NAAQS and implementing 

programs in Indian Country

Provide education on the dangers and 

stress to air quality from open burning of 

flood related debris and other natural 

disasters

1.4 Increased 

concentrations of 

tropospheric pollutants 

such as ozone and fine 

particulate matter 

1

Protecting the public health and the 

environment by approving state programs 

to meet NAAQS

Continue to partner with local and state 

stakeholders to closely monitor changes 

in pollution in our most vulnerable areas 

(metropolitan centers) and take action 

early (Ozone/PM Advance) to mitigate 

new impacts and firm action through 

SIPs, when appropriate.

2.1 Increasing heavy 

precipitation events 3

- Restoring and protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and wetlands

- Drinking water, wastewater and storm 

water infrastructure

- The quality and availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with USACE, Section 404 

programs, to incorporate climate change 

impacts in permits, compensation plans 

and draft EIS documents.

Work with state agencies, water and 

waste water stakeholders to identify and 

plan for climate change challenges by 

using Climate Ready Water Utility tools.

Work with States, USDA, and other local 

partners to prioritize watersheds with 

improvements to the sources of drinking 

water impacted by nutrients and other 

contaminants. Assessments for 

improvement includes ground water and 

surface water sources
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20

Climate Change 

Impact R7 Programmatic Impacts

Climate Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional Program 

would be Impacted

Focus of Associated Region 7 Program Priority Actions

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

2.2 Decreasing 

precipitation days and 

increasing drought 

intensity

3

- Restoring and protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and wetlands

- Drinking water, wastewater and 

stormwater infrastructure

- The quality and availability of safe 

drinking water

Increase public awareness of the role and 

importance of restoring and protecting 

watershed.

Support adaptation in water resource 

planning efforts through collaborative 

dialogues with municipal officials, landuse planners, developers, water managers, 

and other stakeholders to protect longterm water availability and quality for all 

users

Work within the region and outside 

agencies to incorporate water 

conservation practices, energy 

conservation and green infrastructure

2.3 Increased water 

temperatures 3

- Restoring and protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and wetlands

- Drinking water, wastewater and 

stormwater infrastructure

- The quality and availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with states, stakeholders and 

communities to incorporate climate 

change considerations into their water 

quality planning

Work with state strategies such as state 

revolving loan fund intended use plans, 

capacity development strategies to 

promote sustainable practices such as 

energy efficiency, water resilience, and 

asset management.

Work with states to better assess potential 

impacts from increased water 

temperatures and establish appropriate 

water quality standards (e.g., designated 

uses, criteria to protect those uses).

Develop attainable, implementable, and 

protective permit conditions.

2.4 Earlier timing of 

spring events 3

- Restoring and protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and wetlands

- Drinking water, wastewater and 

stormwater infrastructure

- The quality and availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with stakeholders to protect 

drinking water, manage stormwater runoff planning, and manage consumptive 

water use from water ways 
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21

Climate Change 

Impact R7 Programmatic Impacts

Climate Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional Program 

would be Impacted

Focus of Associated Region 7 Program Priority Actions

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

3.1 Increasing heavy 

precipitation events 2

Cleaning up contaminated sites and waste

-Use of Sustainable Materials 

Management and Pollution Prevention to 

prevent the generation of hazardous and 

solid waste

Promote the development and use of 

innovative(precipitation Neutral) 

technologies and practices for site 

remediation & materials management and 

emergency response

Promote the principles of source 

reduction, reuse and recycle to make 

room for unexpected volume resulting 

from climate change events

4.1 – Decreasing 

precipitation days and 

increasing drought 

intensity 

2 Protecting human health and ecosystems 

from chemical risks

Continue to promote Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and other sustainable 

agriculture practices as new products and 

strategies become available

Promote the use of best management 

practices to reduce pesticide runoff into 

surface water after precipitation events 

due to drought-induced soil 

impermeability

4.2 - Increasing extreme 

temperatures 2 Protecting human health and ecosystems 

from chemical risks

Continue to promote Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and other sustainable 

agriculture practices as new products and 

strategies become available

4.3 - Increasing heavy 

precipitation events 2 Protecting human health and ecosystems 

from chemical risks

Continue to promote Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and other sustainable 

agriculture practices as new products and 

strategies become available

Promote the use of best management 

practices to reduce pesticide runoff into 

surface water.

4.4 - Earlier timing of 

spring events 2 Protecting human health and ecosystems 

from chemical risks

Continue to promote Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and other sustainable 

agriculture practices as new products and 

strategies become available

Coordinate with the Region’s State Lead 

Agencies to ensure the availability and 

proper use of Section 18 Emergency 

Exemption registrations, Section 24(c) 

Special Local Need registrations, and 

Emergency Use Permits.

Provide relevant information to 

Headquarters to be used during the 

pesticide registration/re-registration 

process.
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22

Climate Change 

Impact R7 Programmatic Impacts

Climate Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional Program 

would be Impacted

Focus of Associated Region 7 Program Priority Actions

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

4.5 - Increase in and 

changing mix of pests 2 Protecting human health and ecosystems 

from chemical risks

Continue to promote Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and other sustainable 

agriculture practices as new products and 

strategies become available

Coordinate with the Region’s State Lead 

Agencies to ensure the availability and proper 

use of Section 18 Emergency Exemption 

registrations, Section 24(c) Special Local Need 

registrations, and Emergency Use Permits.

Provide relevant information to Headquarters 

to be used during the pesticide registration/reregistration process.

Provide states, Tribes and stakeholders with 

technical assistance and consultation to help

them address emerging pesticide issues.

5.1 – Earlier timing of 

spring events 2

Conducting environmental sampling in 

various media to determine exposure and 

risk

Evaluate the Region’s monitoring and 

sampling methods and strategies and 

make changes to accommodate shifts in 

seasons 

Maintain a situation awareness to identify 

any emerging pesticide enforcement 

issues

Coordinate with the Region’s state lead 

agencies to address pesticide misuse 

incidents

5.2 – Increased frequency 

and intensity of wildfires 2

Conducting environmental sampling in 

various media to determine exposure and 

risk

Focus on NAAQs and water standards 

compliance (increased run-off in fire 

areas)

6.1 – Decreasing 

precipitation days and 

increasing drought 

intensity

1

Continue to use the Region’s EMS to 

promote staff water use efficiencies, 

monitor water availability through local 

provider, and work with Landlord to 

develop contingency plans for various 

levels of mandatory water use reductions 

if necessary

Continue to use the Region’s EMS to 

promote sustainable business practices in 

energy and water efficiency 

6.2 – Increasing extreme 

temperatures 1

Continue to use the Region’s EMS to 

champion FMSD & SHEMD identified 

energy use reduction projects at the STC 

aimed at reducing air exchange rates in the 

laboratory spaces

Promote personal sustainable practices 

like fuel efficient transport and energy 

star product
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23

Climate Change 

Impact R7 Programmatic Impacts

Climate Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional Program 

would be Impacted

Focus of Associated Region 7 Program Priority Actions

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

6.3 – Increasing risk of 

floods 1

Through the Region’s COOP process, 

continue to train staff on need to prepare 

for emergency remote site work and 

advocate for better VPN continuity 

Maintain the staff’s capacity to work 

remotely
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24

Region 7 Priority Actions:

Region 7 is addressing climate change adaptation in a variety of its programmatic areas of 

responsibility. We will continue to integrate climate change adaptation into our existing programs and 

identify new opportunities to address climate change adaptation as regulations change and new 

initiatives and priorities are instituted and funding opportunities (i.e. grants, IAGs, etc) are identified.

As EPA Region 7 has finite resources and cannot address all climate change adaptation needs, we have 

adopted criteria to screen potential actions. We will target climate change adaptation work based on 

the following criteria:

• What is the likelihood of the Regional program being impacted?

• Does the action support and align with other Region 7 priorities and actions?

• Is this a priority action for our partners (federal/state/tribal/local/NGOs) and are they 

able to work with us towards a solution?

• Does the action reduce the risk?

• Does the action protect a critical resource/investment?

• Would the action leverage a larger effort outside of EPA?

• Does EPA have a unique role or capacity to address this issue?

• What is the timeframe of the problem that this action would be addressing?

• Could the action be accomplished within current budgets or would additional funds be 

necessary?

• Does this action have durability/sustainability/stability?

Using these criteria, priority actions were determined for each strategic goal. At the end of the priority 

action is a total number of points it scored. This value was developed through a workgroup evaluation 

discussed in more detail in Appendix A. This information will help the Region as it determines how to 

focus its activities on program vulnerabilities given finite resources and time. The work group will 

continue to revisit these values into the future. 

Priority Actions:

Goal 1: Taking Action on Climate Change and Improving Air Quality

1.1: Continue to partner with local and state stakeholders to optimize fire contingency plan, including 

SMPs to maximize prevention and minimize impacts (30)

1.2: (a) Maintain and increase knowledge of increasing health risks in indoor environments as a result 

of climate change (17)

 (b) Work with EPA programs to target climate adaptation efforts in the most vulnerable 

communities, including tribes (29)
Draft - June 14, 2013

25

1.3: Provide education on the dangers and stress to air quality from open burning of flood related 

debris (24)

1.4: Continue to partner with local and state stakeholders to closely monitor changes in pollution in 

our most vulnerable areas (Metropolitan centers) and take action early (Ozone/PM Advance) to 

mitigate new impacts and firm action through SIPs, when appropriate (27)

Goal 2: Protecting America’s Waters

2.1: (a) Work with USACE Section 404 programs to incorporate climate change impacts in permits, 

compensation plans and draft EIS documents (30)

 (b) Work with state agencies, water and waste water stakeholders to identify and plan for climate 

change challenges by using Climate Ready Water Utility Tools (28)

 (c) Work with States, USDA and other local partners to prioritize watersheds with improvements 

to the sources of drinking water impacted by nutrients and other contaminants. Assessments for 

improvement includes ground water and surface water sources (28)

2.2: (a) Increase public awareness of the role and importance of restoring and protecting watersheds 

 (28)

 (b)Support adaptation in water resource planning efforts through collaborative dialogues with 

municipal officials, land-use planners, developers, water managers, and other stakeholders to protect 

long-term water availability and quality for all users (27)

 (c) Work within the Region and outside agencies to incorporate water conservation practices, 

energy conservation and green infrastructure (25)

2.3: (a) Work with states, stakeholders and communities to incorporate climate change considerations 

into their water quality planning (25)

 (b) Work with state strategies such as state revolving loan fund intended use plans, capacity 

development strategies to promote sustainable practices such as energy efficiency, water resilience an 

asset management (30)

 (c) Work with states to better assess potential impacts from increased water temperatures and 

establish appropriate water quality standards (e.g. designated use criteria to protect those uses). 

Develop attainable, implementable, and protective permit conditions (29)

2.4: Work with stakeholders to protect drinking water, manage stormwater run-off planning, and 

manage consumptive water use from water ways (27)

Goal 3: Cleaning Up America’s Communities and Advancing Sustainable Development

3.1: (a) Promote the development and use of innovative technologies and practices for site 

remediation & materials management (23.5)

 (b) Promote the principles of source reduction, reuse and recycle to make room for unexpected 

volume resulting from climate change events (25)

Goal 4: Ensuring the Safety of Chemicals and Preventing Pollution

4.1: (a) Continue to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other sustainable agriculture 

practices as new products and strategies become available (19)

 (b) Promote the use of best management practices to reduce pesticide runoff into surface water 

after precipitation events due to drought-induced soil impermeability (22)

4.2: Continue to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other sustainable agriculture 

practices as new products and strategies become available (19)
Draft - June 14, 2013

26

4.3: (a) Continue to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other sustainable agriculture 

practices as new products and strategies become available (19)

 (b) Promote the use of best management practices to reduce pesticide runoff into surface water 

 (22)

4.4: (a) Continue to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other sustainable agriculture 

practices as new products and strategies become available (19)

 (b) Coordinate with the Region’s State Lead Agencies to ensure the availability and proper use of 

Section 18 Emergency Exemption registrations, Section 24(c) Special Local Need registrations and 

Emergency Use permits (22)

 (c) Provide relevant information to Headquarters to be used during the pesticide registration/ reregistration process (18) 

4.5: (a) Continue to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other sustainable agriculture 

practices as new products and strategies become available (19)

 (b) Coordinate with the Region’s State Lead Agencies to ensure the availability and proper use of 

Section 18 Emergency Exemption registrations, Section 24(c) Special Local Need registrations and 

Emergency Use permits (22)

 (c) Provide relevant information to Headquarters to be used during the pesticide registration/ reregistration process (18)

 (d) Provide States, Tribes and stakeholders with technical assistance and consultation to help 

them address emerging pesticide issues (22)

Goal 5: Enforcing Environmental Laws

5.1: (a) Evaluate the Region’s monitoring and sampling methods and strategies and make changes to 

accommodate shifts in seasons (16)

 (b) Maintain a situation awareness to identify any emerging pesticide enforcement issues (18)

 (c) Coordinate with the Region’s state lead agencies to address pesticide misuse incidents (23)

5.2: Focus on NAAQs and water standards compliance (increased run-off in fire areas) (29) 

Facilities and Operations

6.1: Continue to use the Region’s EMS to promote staff water use efficiencies, monitor water 

availability through local provider, and work with Landlord to develop contingency plans for various 

levels of mandatory water use reductions if necessary (16)

6.2: Continue to use the Region’s EMS to champion FMSD & SHEMD identified energy use reduction 

projects at the STC aimed at reducing air exchange rates in the laboratory spaces (17)

6.3: Through the Region’s COOP process, continue to train staff on need to prepare for emergency 

remote site work and advocate for better VPN continuity (16)

Other Priority Actions

Actions Related to Agency-Wide Strategic Measures

The FY 2011-2015 EPA Strategic Plan contains the Agency’s first “strategic performance measures” for 

integrating climate adaptation into its activities.xix These strategic performance measures commit the 

Agency to integrate adaptation planning into five major rulemaking processes and five major financial 

assistance mechanisms by 2015. They also call for the integration of adaptation planning into five 
Draft - June 14, 2013

27

major scientific models or decision-support tools used in implementing Agency environmental 

management programs. 

A. Integrate Adaptation Planning into Rulemaking Processes

• Explore opportunities to incorporate climate adaptation considerations into regional 

rulemaking processes such as SIPs and TMDLs, as well as related data collection and analyses, 

policy statements and guidance documents

B. Integrate Adaptation Planning into Financial Assistance Mechanisms

• Explore opportunities to incorporate climate adaptation considerations into competitive 

funding announcements in accordance with the October 18, 2011, EPA guidance memo jointly 

issued by the Office of Policy and the Office of Grants and Debarment - this may include a 

climate adaptation criterion wherever it is relevant to the program’s mission and outcomes
Draft - June 14, 2013

28

Region 7 Monitoring and Evaluation of Priority Actions

Region 7 will bi-annually evaluate its climate change adaptation activities to assess progress toward 

mainstreaming climate change adaptation into programs, policies, rulemaking processes, and 

operations. Some metrics exist that will enable the Region to measure the results of its activities -

others will need to be developed over time. Climate vulnerabilities and impacts will likely change over 

time. Consequently, the priority actions and the metrics we use to measure progress on their 

implementation may need to be revised or changed as the knowledge and understanding of the effects 

of climate change increases. 

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

Goal 1

1.1 Increased 

frequency and 

intensity of 

wildfires

Protecting the 

public health and 

the environment 

by approving 

state programs to 

meet NAAQS and 

implementing 

programs in 

Indian Country

Continue to partner 

with local, state and 

tribal stakeholders to 

optimize fire 

contingency plans, 

including SMPs and a 

new National Fire 

Policy, to maximize 

prevention and 

minimize impacts

Fire prevention 

and contingency 

plans developed 

and shared.

NAAQS standards 

met

1.2 Increasing 

extreme 

temperatures

Protect public 

health by 

promoting 

healthy indoor 

environments 

through voluntary 

programs and 

guidance

a) Maintain and 

increase knowledge of 

increasing health risks 

in indoor environments 

as a result of climate 

change

b) Work with EPA 

programs to target 

climate adaptation 

efforts in the most 

vulnerable 

communities, including 

tribes

a) outreach events 

that reach public 

to increase 

knowledge of 

health risks in 

indoor 

environments

b) number of 

people reached 

during outreach 

events, increase in 

energy star 

products 

purchased

Improved proactive 

management of 

respiratory 

diseases and 

fewer emergency 

room visits.

1.3 Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

Protecting the 

public health and 

the environment 

by approving 

state programs to 

meet NAAQS and 

implementing 

programs in 

Indian Country

Provide education on 

the dangers and stress 

to air quality from open 

burning of flood related 

debris and other 

natural disasters

Education of state 

and local officials 

and the general 

public

NAAQs standards 

met
Draft - June 14, 2013

29

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

1.4 Increased 

concentrations of 

tropospheric 

pollutants such as 

ozone, fine 

particulate matter 

and course 

particulate matter

Protecting the 

public health and 

the environment 

by approving 

state programs to 

meet NAAQS

Continue to partner 

with local and state 

stakeholders to closely 

monitor changes in 

pollution in our most 

vulnerable areas 

(metropolitan centers) 

and take action early 

(Ozone/PM Advance) to 

mitigate new impacts 

and firm action through 

SIPs, when appropriate.

Number of 

partners educated

Number of 

partners 

participating in 

Ozone/PM 

Advance initiatives 

Protecting public 

health and 

environment by 

meeting NAAQs 

standards.

Goal 2

2.1 Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

- Restoring and 

protecting 

watersheds, 

aquatic 

ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

storm water 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with USACE, 

Section 404 programs, 

to incorporate climate 

change impacts in 

permits, compensation 

plans and draft EIS 

documents.

Work with state 

agencies, water and 

waste water 

stakeholders to identify 

and plan for climate 

change challenges by 

using Climate Ready 

Water Utility tools.

Work with States, 

USDA, and other local 

partners to prioritize 

watersheds with 

improvements to the 

sources of drinking 

water impacted by 

nutrients and other 

contaminants. 

Assessments for 

improvement includes 

ground water and 

surface water sources

Meets and events 

with stakeholders 

discussing 

agricultural and 

natural resource 

plans , climate 

ready planning 

tools.

Plans developed, 

watershed 

prioritized with 

focus on nutrients, 

permits 

incorporating 

provisions for 

climate readiness.

Drinking water, 

wastewater, and 

water 

infrastructure is 

designed to 

withstand heavy 

precipitation 

events 

Reduced soil 

erosion/improved 

water 

quality/protection 

of agricultural 

soils and natural 

resources

Impaired 

waterbodies 

removed from 

303d lists
Draft - June 14, 2013

30

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

2.2 Decreasing 

precipitation days 

and increasing 

drought intensity

- Restoring and 

protecting 

watersheds, 

aquatic 

ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

stormwater 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Increase public 

awareness of the role 

and importance of 

restoring and 

protecting watershed.

Support adaptation in 

water resource 

planning efforts 

through collaborative 

dialogues with 

municipal officials, 

land-use planners, 

developers, water

managers, and other 

stakeholders to protect 

long-term water 

availability and quality 

for all users

Work within the region 

and outside agencies to 

incorporate water 

conservation practices, 

energy conservation 

and green 

infrastructure

Implementation of 

agriculture 

funding programs 

encouraging 

adoption of water 

conservation 

practices

Conduct meetings 

and participate in 

events with 

stakeholders on a 

regular basis 

focused on water 

use, energy, 

conservation 

practices and 

green 

infrastructure

Ecosystems, 

drinking water, 

wastewater, and 

water 

infrastructure are 

designed and 

operated to 

withstand severe 

droughts

Protection of 

long-term water 

availability and 

quality for all uses

Stablized Ground 

water reduction 

trend
Draft - June 14, 2013

31

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

2.3 Increased 

water 

temperatures

- Restoring and 

protecting 

watersheds, 

aquatic 

ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

stormwater 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with states, 

stakeholders and 

communities to 

incorporate climate 

change considerations 

into their water quality 

planning

Work with state 

strategies such as state 

revolving loan fund 

intended use plans, 

capacity development 

strategies to promote 

sustainable practices 

such as energy 

efficiency, water 

resilience, and asset 

management.

Work with states to 

better assess potential 

impacts from increased 

water temperatures 

and establish 

appropriate water 

quality standards (e.g., 

designated uses, 

criteria to protect those 

uses). Develop 

attainable, 

implementable, and 

protective permit 

conditions.

Partnerships with 

water treatment 

facilities, 

developers and 

urban planners 

established or 

maintained

Conduct 

stakeholder 

meetings on a 

regular basis

Increased 

conservation 

program 

participation 

implementing 

riparian buffers

State plans 

incorporating 

sustainable 

practices

Protection of 

long-term water 

quality for all uses

Decreased stream 

water 

temperatures
Draft - June 14, 2013

32

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

2.4 Earlier timing 

of spring events

- Restoring and 

protecting 

watersheds, 

aquatic 

ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

stormwater 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with stakeholders 

to protect drinking 

water, manage 

stormwater run-off 

planning, and manage 

consumptive water use 

from water ways 

Partnerships with 

stakeholders 

established or 

maintained

Conduct 

stakeholder 

meetings on a 

regular basis

Development of 

early season 

varieties

Protection of 

long-term water 

quality for all uses

Drinking water, 

wastewater, and 

water 

infrastructure are 

designed to 

accommodate 

shifts in seasons

Improved or 

sustained crop 

production yields

Goal 3

3.1 Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

-Cleaning up 

contaminated 

sites and waste 

-Use of 

Sustainable 

Materials 

Management and 

Pollution 

Prevention to 

prevent the 

generation of 

hazardous and 

solid waste

Promote the 

development and use 

of 

innovative(precipitation 

Neutral) technologies 

and practices for site 

remediation & 

materials management 

and emergency 

response

Promote the principles 

of source reduction, 

reuse and recycle to 

make room for 

unexpected volume 

resulting from climate 

change events

Design, 

communicate and 

implement 

innovative 

technologies and 

practices at 

remediation sites 

to minimize 

precipitation 

impacts

Increases in 

participation in 

SMM and P2 

programs and 

challenges

Contaminated 

sites cleaned up 

designed and 

implemented in a 

way that 

effectively 

withstands heavy 

precipitation 

events

Overall increase 

in national 

diversion rate of 

solid waste to 

landfill and 

increase in P2 

metrics
Draft - June 14, 2013

33

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

3.2 Changes in 

temperature

Cleaning up 

contaminated 

sites and waste

Increase in 

promotion of 

Green Chemistry, 

Design for the 

Environment and 

E3 (Energy, 

Economy and 

Environment) and 

SMM focus areas

Identify points of 

leverage or external 

funding sources to build 

adaptive capacity

Shift in focus of 

regional P2 program to 

promote SMM 

participation

Design, 

communicate and 

implement 

innovative 

technologies and 

practices at 

remediation sites 

to minimize 

temperature 

impacts

Increase number 

of successful grant 

proposals 

including focus 

areas

Contaminated 

sites cleaned up 

designed and 

implemented in a 

way that 

effectively 

withstands 

temperature 

changes

Emergency 

response efforts 

incorporate 

sustainability 

Flooding events 

are not further 

complicated by 

contamination

Goal 4

4.1 – Decreasing 

precipitation days 

and increasing 

drought intensity 

Protecting human 

health and 

ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Promote the use of 

best management 

practices to reduce 

pesticide runoff into 

surface water after 

precipitation events 

due to drought-induced 

soil impermeability

Outreach 

conducted on IPM 

when new 

agriculture 

practices/products 

are available

Human health is 

protected

4.2 - Increasing 

extreme 

temperatures

Protecting human 

health and 

ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Outreach 

conducted on IPM 

when new 

agriculture 

practices/products 

are available

Human health is 

protected
Draft - June 14, 2013

34

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

4.3 - Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

Protecting human 

health and 

ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Promote the use of 

best management 

practices to reduce 

pesticide runoff into 

surface water.

Outreach 

conducted on IPM 

when new 

agriculture 

practices/products 

are available

Human health is 

protected

4.4 - Earlier timing 

of spring events

Protecting human 

health and 

ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Coordinate with the 

Region’s State Lead 

Agencies to ensure the 

availability and proper 

use of Section 18 

Emergency Exemption 

registrations, Section 

24(c) Special Local 

Need registrations, and 

Emergency Use 

Permits.

Provide relevant 

information to 

Headquarters to be 

used during the 

pesticide 

registration/reregistration process.

Outreach 

conducted on IPM 

when new 

agriculture 

practices/products 

are available

Human health is 

protected
Draft - June 14, 2013

35

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

4.5 - Increase in 

and changing mix 

of pests

Protecting human 

health and 

ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Coordinate with the 

Region’s State Lead 

Agencies to ensure the 

availability and proper 

use of Section 18 

Emergency Exemption 

registrations, Section 

24(c) Special Local 

Need registrations, and 

Emergency Use 

Permits.

Provide relevant 

information to 

Headquarters to be 

used during the 

pesticide 

registration/reregistration process.

Provide states, Tribes 

and stakeholders with 

technical assistance and 

consultation to help

them address emerging 

pesticide issues.

Outreach 

conducted on IPM 

when new 

agriculture 

practices/products 

are available

Human health is 

protected
Draft - June 14, 2013

36

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

Goal 5

5.1 – Earlier timing 

of spring events

Conducting 

environmental 

sampling in 

various media to 

determine 

exposure and risk

Evaluate the Region’s 

monitoring and 

sampling methods and 

strategies and make 

changes to 

accommodate shifts in 

seasons 

Maintain a situation 

awareness to identify 

any emerging pesticide 

enforcement issues

Coordinate with the 

Region’s state lead 

agencies to address 

pesticide misuse 

incidents

Modify 

monitoring and 

sampling methods 

and strategies to 

address areas of 

weakness or 

vulnerability 

associated with 

seasonal shifts

Compliance 

monitoring 

remains an 

effective strategy 

for protecting 

human health and 

the environment.

5.2 - Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events and risk of 

floods

Conducting 

environmental 

sampling in 

various media to 

determine 

exposure and risk

Focus on NAAQs and 

water standards 

compliance (increased 

run-off in fire areas)

Increase the 

number of SEPs 

that support 

energy efficiency/ 

renewable energy 

and sustainable 

practices

Compliance 

monitoring 

remains an 

effective strategy 

for protecting 

human health and 

the environment.

Facilities & Operations

6.1 – Decreasing 

precipitation days 

and increasing 

drought intensity

Water use 

reductions at 

Regional Office 

and Science & 

Technology 

Center

Continue to use the 

Region’s EMS to 

promote staff water 

use efficiencies, 

monitor water 

availability through 

local provider, and 

work with Landlord to

develop contingency 

plans for various levels 

of mandatory water use 

reductions if necessary

Outreach to staff, 

management, and 

stakeholders (i.e. 

building owner, 

contractors, etc)

Sustained low 

water and energy 

usage at EPA 

facilities

6.2 - Increasing 

extreme 

temperatures

Energy use 

reductions within 

the HVAC system 

at the STC

Continue to use the 

Region’s EMS to 

champion FMSD & 

SHEMD identified 

energy use reduction 

projects at the STC 

aimed at reducing air 

exchange rates in the 

laboratory spaces

Identification and 

implementation of 

STC energy 

reduction projects

Reduction in 

overall energy 

usage rates
Draft - June 14, 2013

37

Climate Change 

Impact

Focus of 

Associated 

Region 7 

Program

Priority Actions Evaluation 

Output

Evaluation 

Outcome

6.3 – Increasing 

risk of floods

Continue to 

promote telework 

and improve 

remote secure 

access to the 

Region’s/Agency’s 

networks

Through the Region’s 

COOP process, continue 

to train staff on need to 

prepare for emergency 

remote site work and 

advocate for better 

VPN continuity 

Staff are able to 

work remotely

Routine Agency 

functions are 

sustained in a 

flood emergency 

situation
Draft - June 14, 2013

38

Conclusion

In R7 and elsewhere across the United States, predictions regarding climate change impacts vary 

widely and as a consequence so do the resulting vulnerabilities, making planning difficult. However, 

priority actions identified by the programs within the Region have the following common threads. 

(1) Priority actions were constructed within the legal bounds of our existing environmental 

statutes.

(2) Priority actions are primarily extensions of existing or planned program actions which are 

tailored to address specific climate change vulnerabilities.

(3) Priority actions rely heavily on partnerships with R7 state, local and tribal environmental 

programs.

(4) Priority actions focus on communication, education and outreach intended to modify behavior 

and consumption patterns. 

(5) To a certain extent, priority actions could be implemented through work re-prioritization 

without substantial supplemental resources.

Because of the diverse nature of the predictions and our constantly evolving environment, close 

monitoring of climate trends and program readiness are essential if we are to address our 

vulnerabilities in a timely, effective, and relevant way. 

Region 7 will bi-annually review its segment of the plan. This review will incorporate determinations 

about climate conditions, weather impacts, regional vulnerabilities and vulnerable populations that will 

enable the Region to update the plan, if needed, and to give consideration to the sequence of priority 

action implementation. 
Draft - June 14, 2013

39

References

 

i

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Fourth Assessment Report (IPCC), http://www.ipcc.ch/index.htm ii Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, “Scientific Assessment of the Effects of Global Change on the United 

States” (Committee on Environment and Natural Resources of the National Science and Technology Council, U.S. Climate 

Change Science Program, 2008), http://www.climatescience.gov/Library/scientific-assessment/ScientificAssessmentFINAL.pdf. iii Portier CJ, Thigpen Tart K, Carter SR, Dilworth CH, Grambsch AE, Gohlke J, Hess J, Howard SN, Luber G, Lutz JT, Maslak T, 

Prudent N, Radtke M, Rosenthal JP, Rowles T, Sandifer PA, Scheraga J, Schramm PJ, Strickman D, Trtanj JM, Whung P-Y. 

2010. A Human Health Perspective On Climate Change: A Report Outlining the Research Needs on the Human Health Effects 

of Climate Change. Research Triangle Park, NC: Environmental Health Perspectives/National Institute of Environmental 

Health Sciences. doi:10.1289/ehp.1002272 Available: www.niehs.nih.gov/climatereport iv IOM (Institute of Medicine). 2011. Climate Change, the Indoor Environment, and Health. Washington, DC: The National 

Academies Press. [indoor air pollutants and exposure] v EPA website: Fish Consumption Advisories – General Information. Accessed 01-10-13. 

http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/fishadvisories/general.cfm#tabs-4 vi Bates, B.C., Z.W. Kundzewicz, S. Wu and J.P. Palutikof, Eds., 2008: Climate Change and Water. Technical paper of the 

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, IPCC Secretariat, Geneva, p. 56. [invasive species in aquatic ecosystems] vii Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States, Thomas R. Karl, Jerry M. Melillo, and Thomas C. Peterson, (eds.). 

Cambridge University Press, 2009. Great Plains, p. 126-127. [prairie potholes] viii Hatfield, J., K. Boote, P. Fay, L. Hahn, C. Izaurralde, B.A. Kimball, T. Mader, J. Morgan, D. Ort, W. Polley, A. Thomson, and 

D. Wolfe, 2008. Agriculture. In: The effects of climate change on agriculture, land resources, water resources, and 

biodiversity. A Report by the U.S. Climate Change Science Program and the Subcommittee on Global Change Research. 

Washington, DC., USA, pp. 58. [agricultural runoff]

ix Non-stationarity in this context refers to the concept that past hydrologic and weather patterns may not be a good 

indicator of future conditions due to human-caused climate change. x Green infrastructure uses vegetation and soil to manage rainwater where it falls. By weaving natural processes into the 

built environment, green infrastructure provides not only storm water management, but also urban heat island mitigation, 

air quality management, and more. xi 2007 Census of Agriculture Report, US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Washington DC., 

USA, 2009., pp 280 

xii 2007 Census of Agriculture Report, US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Washington DC., 

USA, 2009., pp 278

xiii Mcguire, V.L. Changes in Water Levels and Storage in the High Plains Aquifer, Predevelopment to 2005. US Geological 

Survey. May 2007

xiv University of Nebraska at Lincoln website: Agricultural Irrigation – Ground Water. Accessed 3-01-13. 

http://water.unl.edu/web/cropswater/home

xv Hatfield, J., K. Boote, P. Fay, L. Hahn, C. Izaurralde, B.A. Kimball, T. Mader, J. Morgan, D. Ort, W. Polley, A. Thomson, and 

D. Wolfe, 2008: Agriculture. In: The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture, Land Resources, Water Resources, and 

Biodiversity in the United States. Synthesis and Assessment Product 4.3. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC, 

pp. 59-60. [Chapter 2 - Agriculture] xvi Wolanyk, 2010 xvii USDA Census of Agriculture, 2002 xviii “Strengthening Rural Communities: Lessons from a Growing Farm Economy” Council of Economic Advisers, the White 

House Rural Council, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, June 2012 xix U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, FY 2011-2015 EPA Strategic Plan, Achieving Our Vision (2011),
1

DRAFT COPY

Appendix A
2

Region 7 Actions Matrix: Workgroup members used their best professional judgment to determine values for different vulnerabilities. When applying the criteria, offices did not 

evaluate vulnerabilities in relation to each other, but instead considered each vulnerability independently. These tables are not intended as a definitive ranking, but rather as a useful and 

informative exercise for the region as it determines how to focus its activities on program vulnerabilities. The workgroup will continue to revisit these values into the future.

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

Goal 1: Taking Action on Climate Change & Improving Air Quality

1.1 Increased 

frequency and 

intensity of 

wildfires

3

Protecting the public 

health and the 

environment by 

approving state 

programs to meet 

NAAQS and respond to 

natural disasters

Continue to partner with 

local, state and tribal

stakeholders to optimize 

fire contingency plans, 

including SMPs and a 

new National Fire Policy, 

to maximize prevention 

and minimize impacts

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 30

1.2 Increasing 

extreme 

temperatures

2

Protect public health by 

promoting healthy 

indoor environments 

through voluntary 

programs and guidance

Maintain and increase 

knowledge of increasing 

health risks in indoor 

environments as a result 

of climate change

Work with EPA programs 

to target climate 

adaptation efforts in the 

most vulnerable 

communities, including 

tribes

1

3

1

3

1

3

3

3

3

3

1

3

2

3

1

3

2

3

17

29
3

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

1.3 Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

3

Protecting the public 

health and the 

environment by 

approving state 

programs to meet 

NAAQS and 

implementing programs 

in Indian Country

Provide education on the 

dangers and stress to air 

quality from open 

burning of flood related 

debris and other natural 

disasters

2 2 2 3 3 1 3 3 2 24

1.4 Increased 

concentrations 

of tropospheric 

pollutants such 

as ozone, fine 

particulate 

matter and 

course 

particulate 

matter

1

Protecting the public 

health and the 

environment by 

approving state 

programs to meet 

NAAQS

Continue to partner with 

local and state 

stakeholders to closely 

monitor changes in 

pollution in our most 

vulnerable areas 

(metropolitan centers) 

and take action early 

(Ozone/PM Advance) to 

mitigate new impacts 

and firm action through 

SIPs, when appropriate.

3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 27
4

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

Goal 2: Protecting America’s Waters

2.1 Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

3

- Restoring and 

protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and storm 

water infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with USACE, 

Section 404 programs, to 

incorporate climate 

change impacts in 

permits, compensation 

plans and draft EIS 

documents.

Work with state 

agencies, water and 

waste water 

stakeholders to identify 

and plan for climate 

change challenges by 

using Climate Ready 

Water Utility tools.

Work with States, USDA, 

and other local partners 

to prioritize watersheds 

with improvements to 

the sources of drinking 

water impacted by 

nutrients and other 

contaminants. 

Assessments for 

improvement includes 

ground water and 

surface water sources

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

1

1

3

3

3

30

28

28
5

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

2.2 Decreasing 

precipitation 

days and 

increasing 

drought 

intensity

3

- Restoring and 

protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

stormwater 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Increase public 

awareness of the role 

and importance of 

restoring and protecting 

watershed.

Support adaptation in 

water resource planning 

efforts through 

collaborative dialogues 

with municipal officials, 

land-use planners, 

developers, water 

managers, and other 

stakeholders to protect 

long-term water 

availability and quality 

for all users

Work within the region 

and outside agencies to 

incorporate water 

conservation practices, 

energy conservation and 

green infrastructure

3

3

2

3

3

1

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

1

1

1

3

2

3

28

27

25
6

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

2.3 Increased 

water 

temperatures

3

- Restoring and 

protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

stormwater 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with states, 

stakeholders and 

communities to 

incorporate climate 

change considerations 

into their water quality 

planning

Work with state 

strategies such as state 

revolving loan fund 

intended use plans, 

capacity development 

strategies to promote 

sustainable practices 

such as energy efficiency, 

water resilience, and 

asset management.

Work with states to 

better assess potential 

impacts from increased 

water temperatures and 

establish appropriate 

water quality standards 

(e.g., designated uses, 

criteria to protect those 

uses). Develop 

attainable, 

implementable, and 

protective permit 

conditions.

2

3

2

1

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

1

3

3

3

3

3

25

30

29
7

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

2.4 Earlier 

timing of 

spring events

3

- Restoring and 

protecting watersheds, 

aquatic ecosystems and 

wetlands

- Drinking water, 

wastewater and 

stormwater 

infrastructure

- The quality and 

availability of safe 

drinking water

Work with stakeholders 

to protect drinking 

water, manage 

stormwater run-off 

planning, and manage 

consumptive water use 

from water ways 

2 3 3 3 3 3 3 1 3 27

Goal 3: Cleaning Up Communities and Advancing Sustainable Development

3.1 Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

2

Cleaning up 

contaminated sites and 

waste

-Use of Sustainable 

Materials Management 

and Pollution Prevention 

to prevent the 

generation of hazardous 

and solid waste

Promote the 

development and use of 

innovative(precipitation

Neutral) technologies 

and practices for site 

remediation & materials 

management and 

emergency response

Promote the principles of 

source reduction, reuse 

and recycle to make 

room for unexpected 

volume resulting from 

climate change events

3

3

3

3

2

1

2

2

3

3

3

3

1.5

2

1

3

3

3

23.5

25
8

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

Goal 4: Ensuring the Safety of Chemicals

4.1 –

Decreasing 

precipitation 

days and 

increasing 

drought 

intensity 

2

Protecting human health 

and ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Promote the use of best 

management practices to 

reduce pesticide runoff 

into surface water after 

precipitation events due 

to drought-induced soil 

impermeability

2

3

1

3

2

2

3

3

3

3

1

1

2

2

1

1

2

2

19

22

4.2 - Increasing 

extreme 

temperatures

2

Protecting human health 

and ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

2 1 2 3 3 1 2 1 2 19
9

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

4.3 - Increasing 

heavy 

precipitation 

events

2

Protecting human health 

and ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Promote the use of best 

management practices to 

reduce pesticide runoff 

into surface water.

2

3

1

3

2

2

3

3

3

3

1

1

2

2

1

1

2

2

19

22
10

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

4.4 - Earlier 

timing of 

spring events 2

Protecting human health 

and ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable 

agriculture practices as 

new products and 

strategies become 

available

Coordinate with the 

Region’s State Lead 

Agencies to ensure the 

availability and proper 

use of Section 18 

Emergency Exemption 

registrations, Section 

24(c) Special Local Need 

registrations, and 

Emergency Use Permits.

Provide relevant 

information to 

Headquarters to be used 

during the pesticide 

registration/reregistration process.

2

1

1

1

3

1

2

2

2

3

1

1

3

3

1

1

3

3

2

2

2

1

3

3

2

2

2

19

22

18
11

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

4.5 - Increase 

in and 

changing mix 

of pests

2

Protecting human health 

and ecosystems from 

chemical risks

Continue to promote 

Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) and 

other sustainable agriculture 

practices as new products 

and strategies become 

available

Coordinate with the 

Region’s State Lead 

Agencies to ensure the 

availability and proper use 

of Section 18 Emergency 

Exemption registrations, 

Section 24(c) Special Local 

Need registrations, and 

Emergency Use Permits.

Provide relevant 

information to Headquarters 

to be used during the 

pesticide registration/reregistration process.

Provide states, Tribes and 

stakeholders with technical 

assistance and consultation 

to help them address

emerging pesticide issues.

2

1

1

2

1

3

1

3

2

2

2

1

3

1

1

1

3

3

1

3

1

3

3

3

2

2

2

2

1

3

3

3

2

2

2

2

19

22

18

22
12

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

Goal 5: Enforcing Environmental Laws

5.1 – Earlier 

timing of 

spring events 2

Conducting 

environmental sampling 

in various media to 

determine exposure and 

risk

Evaluate the Region’s 

monitoring and sampling 

methods and strategies 

and make changes to 

accommodate shifts in 

seasons 

Maintain a situation 

awareness to identify any 

emerging pesticide 

enforcement issues

Coordinate with the 

Region’s state lead 

agencies to address 

pesticide misuse 

incidents

2

1

2

1

1

3

1

2

2

2

1

3

1

1

3

1

3

1

2

2

2

1

3

3

3

2

2

16

18

23

5.2 – Increased 

frequency and 

intensity of 

wildfires

2

Conducting 

environmental sampling 

in various media to 

determine exposure and 

risk

Focus on NAAQs and 

water standards 

compliance (increased 

run-off in fire areas)

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 29
13

Climate 

Change 

Impact

R7 Programmatic Impacts

Regional Priority Actions Ranking Criteria

Climate 

Change Impact

Likelihood 

Regional 

Program 

would be 

Impacted

Focus of Associated 

Region 7 Program Priority Actions

Support & 

Align with 

other R7 

priorities 

& actions

Action is 

a priority 

action for 

our 

partners

Impact 

Action 

would 

have in 

reducing 

risk

Action 

Protects a 

critical 

resource/ 

investment

Action 

Leverages 

a larger 

effort 

outside of 

EPA

EPA has a 

unique 

role or 

capacity 

to 

address 

action

Timeframe when risk 

likely to occur:

Action can be 

accomplished 

within current 

budgets

Action has 

durability/ 

sustainability/

stability

Composite

Score

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

High = 3

Med. = 2

Low = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

0-10 yrs = 3

11-30 yrs = 2

31 – 100 yrs = 1

Yes = 3

No = 1

Yes = 3

Somewhat = 2

No = 1

Facilities & Operations

6.1 –

Decreasing 

precipitation 

days and 

increasing 

drought 

intensity

1 Water use at R7 RO and 

STC

Continue to use the 

Region’s EMS to promote 

staff water use 

efficiencies, monitor 

water availability 

through local provider, 

and work with Landlord 

to develop contingency 

plans for various levels of 

mandatory water use 

reductions if necessary

2 1 2 1 1 1 2 3 2 16

6.2 –

Increasing 

extreme 

temperatures

1 Water and energy usage 

at EPA facilities

Continue to use the 

Region’s EMS to 

champion FMSD & 

SHEMD identified energy 

use reduction projects at 

the STC aimed at 

reducing air exchange 

rates in the laboratory 

spaces

2 1 2 3 1 1 3 1 2 17

6.3 –

Increasing risk 

of floods 1

- Operations of Agency 

facilities, personnel 

safety, physical security 

and emergency 

communications

- Emergency 

management, mission 

support (protective gear 

acquisition)

Through the Region’s 

COOP process, continue 

to train staff on need to 

prepare for emergency 

remote site work and 

advocate for better VPN 

continuity 

2 1 2 1 1 1 2 3 2 16