The University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership (MCAP) was formed in 2008 by a small group of leaders from the University of Minnesota, local, state and federal governments, and private partners, who started meeting regularly to discuss the need to support increased awareness of and investments in climate adaptation in Minnesota and across the Midwest. Since then, MCAP has organized annual conferences and climate adaptation awards and engaged more than 3,000 researchers, practitioners, elected officials, and community members in climate science and climate adaptation discussions.
MCAP is the only multi-sector, statewide group working on climate adaptation. We have grown steadily, established a media presence, conducted research, and provided lectures and presentations across the state. Today, with the support of University of Minnesota Extension and the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, MCAP is expanding its mission, research, and reach in order to accelerate climate adaptation actions across Minnesota and the Midwest. With increased investments in applied climate research, a more formal organizational structure, and increased participation of students and emerging leaders, we are increasing our programming, tailoring adaptation support to communities and businesses, and working to be the go-to, trusted resource for climate science and climate resilience research and information.
Central to our mission is close partnership with the diverse voices, perspectives, and expertise needed to advance the implementation of effective, equitable adaptation actions across sectors and communities in Minnesota, and beyond. Together, through coordination, collaboration, and communication, we can ensure that all communities can thrive even as we face the increased risks and stresses on our communities from the impacts of climate change.