This quarter, we are highlighting CSU Extension and their role in Climate Smart Future Ready (CSFR). Find out more through the below Q&A with Christa Timmerman, the Health and Well-being Specialist for Larimer County CSU Extension.

 

Larimer County Office of Colorado State University Extension is a partnership between CSU and Larimer County to offer evidenced-based education and resources to the community on a variety of topics including agriculture, youth development, horticulture, food preservation, leadership development, and health. Many of our programs are low or no cost and we expand our reach by partnering with hundreds of organizations, businesses, and volunteers, and CSU faculty and students. I currently implement programs related to mental health, healthy homes, and healthy aging. 

 

Climate change impacts like poor air quality, wildfires, extreme heat, and trauma/stress threatens our community's ability to lead healthy lives. In addition, some populations are more vulnerable to these health impacts, but may have limited access to resources and education to support them. Larimer County CSU Extension and Larimer County Health and Environment see the value in partnering to prepare for health related impacts from climate change and to plan for prevention and public health response efforts. In addition, research shows that public and personal health are main motivators for climate action, so our team is interested in hearing from community members about possible solutions and resources needed to mitigate health risks and build resilience for the future. 

 

CSU Extension has been a trusted source of information for over 100 years in Colorado and we continue to grow and evolve based on community needs. Our Extension specialist in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Horticulture have educated the public for decades about sustainable and regenerative practices. However, our organization has not been involved in community health efforts related to climate change in the past. The CSFR has allowed our staff to build connections in this space and work alongside Larimer County and other agencies to better prepare for and respond to health issues influenced by climate change.  

Our health focus team has decided to tackle education and outreach related to extreme heat in the County. Summer is quickly approaching and the National Weather Service is expecting a hot season for our area. Heat is something felt by everyone in our community, but some populations are more vulnerable to heat related illnesses like heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Our communication efforts will focus on those most impacted including but not limited to people experiencing homelessness, outdoor workers and athletes, older adults, youth, and low-income communities. We hope to have a variety of materials to share with local organizations who serve these populations and can help spread education and resources. In addition, we are working with a dedicated CSU student, Reaghan Fields, who will help create content for the campaign and host outreach efforts this summer to gain input from the community. This is our first time creating a campaign related to heat, so we will also be evaluating the efforts to help guide our future planning. 

 

Climate change health issues are complex and require partnerships to reach vulnerable communities and plan for solutions. Extreme heat is no exception and we hope to convene conversations with community-serving organizations (libraries, housing partners, youth centers, employers, etc.); local school districts; CSU faculty, staff, and students; community members; state and national experts; and many Larimer County Department staff. 

I am hopeful that our action team and others will be able to see success in addressing climate change impacts at the local level and instill active hope in our community. Larimer County is a collaborative community and pulling together our expertise, capacity and resources to focus on clear goals will benefit our local community as we deal with climate change globally. I also believe we can be a leader in the state and region with our efforts to show that local strategies are needed and effective to address the complex issues we face. Lastly, I hope our work will invite youth to participate in solutions to the climate issues and empower them to create change in the community.