NC Climate Risk Assessment and Resilience Plan

Encourage farmers and foresters to research technological opportunities to use water resources more efficiently. Increasing water use efficiency can prevent or alleviate drought impacts. Encourage farmers and foresters to investigate potential backup water supply sources for agriculture (e.g., well vs surface water) in case of a drought. Diversify food supply chains to prepare for potential impacts from changing seasons and extreme events. For example, support local food production by promoting new technologies, encouraging farmers to... Consult with the agricultural sector to determine cross-sector objectives for drought planning. Share information about the current and projected state of the water supply. Develop ideas to increase resilience... Work with the water utility to keep and update data on source-specific water supplies. Establish and implement sector-appropriate outreach mechanisms when water levels get low. Consider agricultural needs when updating current water management infrastructure to maintain high-quality agricultural water supply at a reasonable cost... Promote and support sustainable practices in all areas of the food system. The food economy is an integral contributor to the overall economic vitality of the City. Develop and communicate water-use best practices for agricultural producers in real time to inform plant and animal water needs, improve efficiency and reduce water loss. Promote opportunities for controlled-environment agriculture (e.g., hydroponics, aquaculture) to increase local food production of food that is less energy and water intensive and protected from climate... Through policies or incentives, ensure the viability of neighborhood-based gardens that contribute to local food production and beneficial pollinator habitat. Promote regenerative soil building to revitalize soil quality. Work with nonprofits and universities to create outreach and training materials about agricultural practices that increase diversity and drought resistance. Investigate other uses for reclaimed water (e.g., crop irrigation). Encourage farmers to work with agriculture experts to identify and test more drought- and pest-resistant crop options for local food production. Develop and update regional water models. Ensure water management models account for future climate conditions. Determine the economic impact of water management on critical elements of the economy, including agriculture, tourism and marine industries. Revise land use plans to accommodate changes in types of agricultural activities and to allow for shifts in agriculturally viable areas. Encourage soil management and planting and growing techniques that improve soil and plant health in response to climate change. As extreme heat becomes more common, encourage farmers and ranchers to plant drought tolerant and native trees for livestock. Encourage farmers to update farm technologies to account for seasonal changes and reduce fertilizer and water use. For example, farmers can increase the efficiency of irrigation; make use of weather and... Promote resilient land management practices, including range management practices that increase water retention. Increased water retention can enhance soil moisture, ground water and healthy ecosystems....