The Beginning
During the early winter of 2020, a group of Lander citizens came together to create a series of events called the Lander Climate Action Series. Over the course of two months, we gathered as a community to hear about the local, federal, and global impacts of climate change as well as local solutions for a sustainable future. Out of the series, a group formed the Lander Climate Action Network to keep tackling climate issues in Lander. See the vital work we're doing in the community.
Our Focus Areas
Greenhouse Gas Reduction
We partner with Lander organizations and residents to adopt low carbon technologies and positive behavior change.
Adaptation & Resilience
We partner with public institutions to increase their understanding of local climatic changes and how to build adaptive systems and infrastructure.
Climate-Related Flood Risk - LCAN partnered with Western Water Assessment to host a climate science and response seminar focused on flooding risk for local public officials and conservation staff.
Wildfire Smoke Action Planning - LCAN is working with Fremont County Public Health and the Greater Yellowstone Fire Action Network to develop a plan for how the county will alert the public of large smoke events and how to take care of their health. This work will include installing more air quality sensors and distributing air purifiers in times of need.
Monte's Tree Fund - In honor of the late Lander Mayor, Monte Richardson, the Richardson family started a fund to plant trees on the city's public land. LCAN's contribution to this fund will sequester carbon from the atmosphere and provide shade during days of extreme heat.
Raising Awareness
We raise awareness of local changes in climate and what can be done about it by hosting events and digging into the data.
Hosting Climate Events - From our inaugural climate action series in 2020 to hosting a statewide Wyoming Climate Summit in 2022 and several community events in between, we believe that educational and actionable events inspire others to take action.
2021 Municipal Energy & Environment Report - LCAN received funding to hire a consultant to report on the City of Lander's energy use, fuel consumption, and waste practices and their associated greenhouse gas emissions. The consultant and the Energy & Environment Task Force worked closely with city staff to understand the nature of each emission source and brainstorm ways to reduce those emissions while saving city money.
Community Climate Groups in WY - LCAN collaborates with other community climate groups across Wyoming to share insights and learn from others.
Advocacy
Our members show up to make change in our community. We advocate for cost effective changes that improve Lander's quality of life and reduce climate-causing pollution.
Mayoral Proclamation - After the Lander Climate Action Series, LCAN urged the then Mayor of Lander, Monte Richardson, to take action on climate change. In a written proclamation, Richardson acknowledged the adverse impacts of climate change and the risk it poses to Lander. He also supported the intent to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Formation of the Lander Energy & Environment Task Force - To assist the city act upon the intent to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, LCAN worked with city staff to write the bylaws for an Energy & Environment Task Force. This independent task force works closely with city staff to identify energy and cost savings that reduce emissions.
Letter writing campaigns - When the Energy & Environment Task Force proposed to the Lander City Council that they adopt greenhouse gas reduction targets for their municipal operations, LCAN facilitated an effective letter writing campaign and rallied residents to show up to city hall in support of the resolution. The resolution passed! Read more here.