"WASHINGTON, DC -- The public is asked to comment on the Obama administration's first draft national strategy to reduce the impacts climate change is already having on wildlife, fish and plants and ecosystems, and the people and economies that depend on them."

"The National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy, issued today in draft form, is intended to guide the nation's efforts over the next five to 10 years. It is open for public review and comment through March 5 at www.wildlifeadaptationstrategy.gov [2].

'The impacts of climate change are already here and those who manage our landscapes are already dealing with them,' said Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Hayes.

'The reality is that rising sea levels, warmer temperatures, loss of sea ice and changing precipitation patterns - trends scientists have definitively connected to climate change - are already affecting the species we care about, the services we value, and the places we call home,' said Hayes. 'A national strategy will help us prepare and adapt.' "

Environment News Service had the story January 19, 2012. [3]