Forecasts and Planning Tools

The Climate Impacts Group (CIG) uses its research on Pacific Northwest (PNW) climate variability and change to develop climate-based natural resource forecasts and planning tools for PNW resource managers. These products are designed to facilitate the use of climate information in near-term (seasonal to interannual) operations and planning, as well as long-range planning efforts. The lead times afforded by the CIG’s forecasts and planning tools allow resource managers to better assess and manage the risks and opportunities associated with projected conditions.

Quick Links: CIG Forecasts and Planning Tools

Experimental forecasts (lead times = weeks to years):

• Outlook for PNW climate
• Columbia River ensemble streamflow forecasts
• Coho survival forecast
• Extreme events forecasts

Climate change planning tools:

• Climate change temperature and precipitation scenarios
• Climate change streamflow scenarios
• Detailed planning studies (e.g., Climate Impacts Group 2009, Battin et al. 2007, Wiley 2004, Palmer et al 2004)
• Climate change adaptation guidebook
• Climate change adaptation case study database and library

Other Tools:

• PNW climate mapping tool

Forecast tools in development:

• Ensemble forecasts of PNW temperature, precipitation, snowpack and soil moisture
• Flood forecasts

Other Types of Planning Assistance and Technical Support

In addition to climate-based resource forecasts and planning tools, the CIG offers technical support to policy makers and resource managers through:

• Meetings and workshops
• Presentations and briefings
• Research partnerships and consultancies
• One-on-one technical assistance
• Research publications and white papers, and
• Data

Seattle Public Utilities, Portland Water Bureau, Idaho Department of Water Resources, and the Bonneville Power Administration are just a few of the resource agencies that are using or have used CIG forecasts and/or technical support capacities in resource planning. For more information on planning assistance, please contact CIG Outreach.