This fall and winter, the Washington County Climate Action Plan team has been wrapping up analysis of baseline data, including:

• An Environmental Scan, examining both existing county plans and programs related to climate action as well as state and regional climate frameworks to ensure coordination and alignment.
• A climate vulnerability assessment, analyzing current and projected climate conditions and how the effects of climate change are expected to impact Washington County in the future.
• A greenhouse gas inventory, breaking down current greenhouse gas emissions for both Washington County operations and Washington County as a whole.
  
  

We are currently in the goal setting stage, working to identify both big-picture and specific goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from county operations, reduce emissions community-wide, and promote greater climate resilience. These goals will be grounded in what we heard from the community through a survey and pop-up events this past summer and also informed by continued engagement with the Climate Action Plan Community Advisory Group (CAG), staff Project Management Team (PMT), staff leadership, and the Washington County Board of Commissioners. More information is available on the Climate Action Plan website.

We anticipate bringing our baseline reports and draft goals to the County Board before spring, and we will share another update after Board direction is received. Thank you for your interest and commitment to a sustainable future for Washington County.

To learn more about the project or to contact the project team,  visit the project website at WashingtonCountyMN.gov/ClimateActionPlan.