The Effects Of Climate Change On The State Of Colorado

It is undeniable that climate change is drastically changing our current landscapes throughout the world. There are many individuals who consider climate change to be a natural and organic progression, but many studies indicate that due to excess greenhouse gas emissions, humans are accelerating global warming at an alarming rate. It’s convenient to continuously dismiss the studies and evidence that suggest climate change is real and it could have serious consequences, but when these drastic changes are taking place in our own backyard, it becomes a harsh reality. There is longstanding research, which indicates that the Colorado River has been in a drought since the early 2000’s and researchers allege that due to rising temperatures, the†¦show more content†¦According to Dr. Denning, â€Å"as the global climate changes, average temperatures will rise sharply. Because Colorado is so far inland, this effect will be stronger because large bodies of water help mit igate temperature swings and Colorado is far from our oceans or Great Lakes. Imagine the climate of Albuquerque as far north as Greeley.† Additionally, we must consider the agriculture industry is estimated to be worth around forty-one billion dollars in Colorado, which means climate change will have a drastic impact on food production. Colorado’s geographic location is problematic in itself, but the continuous temperature changes means longer growing seasons. Ultimately, the rising temperatures make plants consume more water and it reduces the annual snowpack, which creates a conundrum of issues. Similarly, we can assume a warmer Colorado will also mean a much drier Colorado, which will hurt agriculture on every level. A report submitted to the Colorado Energy Office, titled â€Å"The Colorado Climate Change Vulnerability Study† presents key vulnerabilities the state is faced with due to climate change. The report highlights many areas, but it offers insight into negative effects from climate variability and how to adapt to them. Since the agricultural sector plays such a critical role in Colorado’s economy, its vulnerabilities are detailed at length. The report splitsShow MoreRelatedEssay about History of the Colorado River1413 Words   |  6 Pagesscientists from the University of Arizona in Tuscon, the Colorado River went through a six decade long drought during the mid-1100s. This drought was longer than any other drought know to the region. 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