Conclusion

Groups that initially appeared to have varying perspectives on more abstract concepts of climate change nonetheless found they came to agree on likely impacts and shared common values that inspired them to tackle what lay ahead. Forming interdisciplinary and interagency work groups with broad knowledge and jurisdictions led to rich discussions, a more complete picture of the challenges across a wide spectrum, and surprising areas of consensus and creativity. Achieving resilience in the face of climate impacts requires taking a long view and putting in place stable structures—administrative as well as physical—that may not exist initially. Requiring transparency on progress can also promote accountability and serves to strengthen a program’s integrity. Moreover, instituting deadlines and accountability should be closely tied to data and values. Collaborating to achieve resilience in the face of climate change lasts beyond any initial announcement.