Community Speaker Forum: Mark Seeley

Join us for what promises to be an interesting forum by Mark Seeley discussing climate warming in Minnesota. He will also be available to sign copies of his co-authored new book, Voyageur Skies: Weather and the Wilderness of Minnesota's National Park. Professor Seeley is Extension Climatologist and Professor in Department of Soil, Water and Climate at the U of M and a weekly commentator on Minnesota Public Radio's "Morning Edition" program.

In recent years there has been increasing recognition by scientists that the climate is showing several distinct trends or changes in character. In our own Great Lakes Region there are measurable changes going on. Among these are: (1) warmer winters; (2) higher minimum temperatures; (3) higher frequency of tropical-like dew points, especially in the summer months; (4) and an overall increase in variability of precipitation and other hydrologic features. These climate trends are clearly linked to visible consequences in the landscape. In addition climate models, validated against three independent sets of climate measurements, suggest our climate will continue to change in the directions shown by these recent trends. There are both quantity and character changes in climate that are important for us to understand if we are to adapt effectively. He will share data analysis and perspectives related to needed adaptation.

On-site child care will be provided for this event.