Impact assessment in an era of climate change and management of natural hazards

Abstract

New Zealand’s variable climate and young topography mean that its farmers are well-attuned to and prepared for ‘normal’ natural adverse environmental events. However, seismic events over the last decade coupled with the apparent exacerbation of adverse climatic events due to climate change have severely tested farmers’ resilience. A project was initiated under the National Science Challenge – Resilience to Nature’s Challenges (RNC) to develop a tool to assist farmers to develop Resilient Farm Plans (RFP). This project has been continued and expanded as a key research theme in Lincoln University’s Centre of Excellence in Designing, Future Productive Landscapes (CDFPL).