The U.S. government is proposing the creation of seven "climate hubs" that are designed to help farmers cope with global warming. The networked hubs will make it easier for government agencies to communicate with each other.
"USDA's Regional Hubs will deliver science-based knowledge and practical information to farmers, ranchers and forest landowners within each region of the United States to support decision-making related to climate change," said the government in a post on the USDA website. "These Hubs are needed to maintain and strengthen agricultural production, natural resource management, and rural economic development under increasing climate variability."
Seven locations were chosen for the "climate hubs." The locations were chosen to serve specific areas that are prone to certain global warming side effects. These locations include Las Cruces, New Mexico; Corvallis, Oregon; El Reno, Oklahoma; Fort Collins, Colorado; Ames, Iowa; Durham, New Hampshire; and Raleigh, North Carolina. The hubs will be operating out of existing offices of the Department of Agriculture. States in the lower western part of the country often deal with droughts while other states have to deal with harsh winters or regular flooding. The "climate hubs" were spread out in such a way to cover all possible angles.
"The Hubs were chosen in each of seven regions (see map) through a competitive, internal application process among USDA facilities. Each Hub will serve as the center of a network of connected activities and will be located in a USDA facility (Agricultural Research Service, Forest Service, or Natural Resources Conservation Service) within its region," said the government. "Each Hub will maintain a flexible network of public, academic, and private sector organizations, researchers, and outreach specialists."
To link the Department of Agriculture and other relevant agencies, the networked hubs will use both online and real-world networks. The networks will enable farmers, ranchers, researchers and government officials to interact and exchange information in an organized manner. Additional objectives include providing technical support for affected areas, publishing assessments and regional forecasts, and the dissemination of relevant information through outreach and education. Partner agencies and organizations include USDA researchers, private companies, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Interior, educational institutions and other related organizations.
