Climate change
Building resilience in the face of climate change
Support the Master Gardener Program
Throughout this site there are links to documents of various file types. Please contact our Statewide Program Leader if you require this information in a different format.
Simple steps for a greener future
Engaging university-trained volunteers to empower and sustain diverse communities with relevant, unbiased, research-based horticulture and environmental stewardship education. Read about Extension Master Gardeners in the news around Washington state.
Learn & Apply
- Climate change video series by Dr. Craig Cooper
- Global Warming and Climate Change skepticism examined
- Climate Change: Global Temperature | NOAA Climate.gov
- WSU Research on Climate Change
- AgWeatherNet | Washington State University
- Cultivating Resilience in a Changing Climate – The Evergreen Thumb
- 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
- How to Use the Maps | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
- The Essentials of Composting | Spokane County | Washington State University
- The Breadlab | Washington State Magazine | Washington State University
- WSU Breadlab: Climate Blend flour (Article by NPR)
- Laying Fast Tracks Toward Climax Forests (Penn State University)
- How Climate Change Fuels Increasing Wildfire Disasters
Impact of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program
WSU Extension Master Gardener volunteers teach communities ways to protect our local ecosystems, leading to improved water quality, providing cleaner drinking water and healthier aquatic environments.
Learn more about the public value of our impacts in our 2023 Annual Report.
Quick tips
- Use Energy-Efficient Tools: Opt for manual or electric gardening tools instead of gas-powered ones to reduce emissions
- Plant Native Species: Choose plants that are native to your area as they require less water and are more resilient to local pests and diseases.
- Compost: Create a compost bin for kitchen scraps and garden waste to reduce landfill waste and enrich your soil.
- Use Organic Mulch: Mulch helps retain soil moisture, reduce weeds, and improve soil health.
- Collect Rainwater: Set up a rain barrel to collect rainwater for watering your garden, reducing the need for tap water.
- Grow Your Own Food: Plant a vegetable garden to reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy fresh, local produce.
- Avoid Chemical Pesticides: Use natural pest control methods to protect beneficial insects and reduce chemical runoff.
- Create a Pollinator Garden: Plant flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to support biodiversity.
- Practice No-Till Gardening: Minimize soil disturbance to improve soil health and reduce carbon emissions.
- Install a Green Roof: If possible, create a green roof with plants to insulate your home and reduce urban heat.
