Iowans are seeing increases in precipitation and temperature along with a longer and warmer growing season and better survival and spread of agricultural pests, according to a report authored by 11 researchers at Iowa’s three regent universities.

The group makes up the Iowa Climate Change Impacts Committee, approved by the state legislature in 2009.

The report said climate change is already affecting the way Iowans live and work, and recommended seven policy initiatives to address the impacts of climate change:

• Consider the rising impacts of recent trends, including extreme rain that can result in flooding.
• Take steps to protect soil, water quality and long-term agricultural productivity.
• Increase investments in state programs that enhance wildlife habitat and management.
• Ask the Iowa Department of Public Health to report annually on how climate change is affecting Iowans’ health.
• Advocate highway construction standards that consider the effects of climate change.
• Authorize the Iowa Insurance Division to issue reports and recommendations about the risks and costs of property insurance associated with climate-related claims.
• Fund ongoing research of Iowa’s climate and how changes will affect Iowans.

To view the full report, click here.