Columbus Science Pub
Presentation
Talking Climate and Water at the Columbus Science Pub
Posted by Jim Stagge on January 09, 2025
Tickets - Jan 9, 2025 Columbus Science Pub with Jim Stagge
On January 9, 2025, I had the opportunity to speak at the Columbus Science Pub, a great community event that brings scientists and curious minds together in a relaxed setting to talk about current research and big questions. This month’s topic? Climate change and how it is impacting water and hydrology right here in Ohio.</p>
My presentation focused on what that means from a hydrologic perspective—how climate change is altering the water cycle, increasing the intensity and frequency of droughts and floods, and shifting the timing and magnitude of precipitation across seasons.
During the talk, I shared how we can use tree-ring data to reconstruct the hydroclimate of the past. By linking these reconstructions with modern streamflow records and future climate model simulations, we can track how water availability and extremes have changed over time and what that tells us about our future.
For Ohio and the broader Midwest, the message is clear, anthropogenic climate change has impacted our water cycle. Winters are wetter, extreme rainfall is more frequent, and summer droughts are becoming more likely. Understanding these changes is essential for managing our water resources, protecting ecosystems, and planning for more resilient communities.
Thanks to everyone who came out, asked great questions, and engaged in thoughtful conversation. It’s events like the Columbus Science Pub that remind me how powerful science communication can be—and how much people care about the environment around them.
If you haven’t been to a Science Pub event, I highly recommend it!
