Vilicus Farms is a nationally recognized first generation, organic, dryland crop farm in Northern Hill County, Montana. The cropping systems here model a vision where organic practices are considered the norm, seeking to advance land stewardship practices at scale that promote healthy ecosystems. This case study looks at a few of the ecosystem services enhanced by activities on Vilicus Farms.
Nationwide and across the globe, climate impacts pose increasing problems to communities and ecosystems. As community leaders and local governments work to address these impacts, nature-based solutions can provide cost-effective options that benefit both communities and wildlife. Earth Economics partnered with the National Audubon Society on three case studies involving restoration and protection of wetlands, barrier islands, and other ecosystems for hazard mitigation purposes. These three cases represent diverse communities and geographies across the nation - in Connecticut, North Carolina, and California.
In Tacoma, our analysis found that urban heat islands increase maximum temperatures by as much as 6.2 degrees F above the local baseline. Combined with regional climatic effects, neighborhoods in Central and South Tacoma may be as much as 14 degrees F hotter than neighborhoods in North Tacoma. 11,980 people live in neighborhoods where maximum temperature exceed the 90th percentile and where average per capita incomes are less than 200% the federal poverty level.
As the impacts of climate change and heat waves become more frequent, urban heat islands are are a significant cause for concern. This case study of Broward County, Florida found that urban heat islands increase maximum temperatures by as much as 5°F above the local baseline. 90,000 people live in neighborhoods where the urban heat islands increase temperatures by 2°F or more and where average per capita incomes are less than 200% the federal poverty level.
In Seattle, our analysis found that urban heat islands increase maximum temperatures by as much as 6° F above the local baseline. Combined with regional climatic effects, neighborhoods in Central and South Seattle may be as much as 14° F hotter than neighborhoods in North Seattle. There is a strong correlation between summer heat and negative health outcomes. Temperatures above 82°F significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and heat stroke.