Climate change is the greatest 21st century threat to the natural resources of New York State (NYS), including >3000 lakes and their watersheds in the Adirondacks. Even as the region recovers from a century of acid rain, impacts from climate change and interacting stressors are quickly emerging. In the decades ahead, climate change impacts are expected to drive environmental changes despite the protected status of Adirondack ecosystems. Existing monitoring programs are ill-equipped to quantify and track future climate change impacts.
A new assessment of current ecological conditions is urgently needed. As of 2024, researchers are studying, sampling, and analyzing data from lakes throughout the Adirondacks to assess historic changes and use modern technologies to establish current baseline conditions that enable detection of future climate-driven changes.
Survey of Climate and Adirondack Lake Ecosystems
Adirondack Lake Ecosystems
Residents of the Adirondacks, and the millions who visit the region annually, rely upon healthy lakes in numerous ways. These ecosystems provide a source of water, recreation, and food for people, and ongoing shifts in lake conditions are creating noticeable impacts on tourists and residents alike.
In order to maintain the beauty and integrity of Adirondack lakes, individuals, government agencies, and other stakeholders must understand and adapt to climate change. Scientific data can help guide management efforts toward lakes where they can make the biggest difference.