Global warming is likely to bring many changes to the nation. The United States as a whole is in a strong economic position to adapt to many of these changes, but adaptation is often expensive, not always possible or successful, and during transitions ecosystems, communities, and individuals could suffer. Moreover, national impact summaries disguise local dislocations and disruptions to the ways we live, work and recreate.
Climate change adds a serious stress to our already threatened resources and treasured places.
Overall impact statements also mask significant opportunities. To minimize the negative changes and make the most of the positive changes we need to take a close look at how climate change will affect each region. Key Findings Climate change models project that much of America's agricultural land will experience warming of 5 to 10 F by 2100. Droughts could increase in some areas, while others might experience substantially more precipitation than today. The US National Assessment investigated the potential consequences of climate variability and change to agricultural production.