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Shinnecock Indian NationClimate Change Adaption

PlanningShavonne F. Smith, Environmental Director, Shinnecock Indian Nation

November 12, 2015University of Arizona Native Nations Climate Adaptation Program

Tribal Leaders Summit on Climate Change: A Focus on Climate Adaptation Planning and Implementation

Shinnecock Lands

Shinnecock People

What was your tribe’s motivation for the plan?

• Shoreline erosion, storm surge, sea level rise

• Proactive

What process did you use to develop the plan?

• Researched examples• Community meetings, small work

sessions• Assistance of another tribe & consultant

What are the key components of the plan and what is the current status?

• The plan is a “living” document • Peconic Estuary Program assisting with a

vulnerability assessment

How did you develop buy-in?

• Changes were evident• There were concerns of specific groups:

hunters, baymen, Elders

What barriers to implementation have you encountered?

• Funding• Time

Moving Foward

• Update the plan• Identify resources

• Begin new round of community meetings

• Connect the dots

Engaging Our Youth

• Native Youth Science Camp

• USGS & Shinnecock

Horseshoe Crab Monitoring

Tanohketeaonk

Tabutne