HAPPENINGS

In coordination with the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) seeks public comment on the proposed themes and topics of the first-ever National Nature Assessment (NNA1) represented in the chapter annotated outlines, i.e., the Zero-Order Draft. Authors will take into account input received from this notice in developing their draft chapters.

Reviewers can access the NNA1 Zero-Order Draft and submit comments via the USGCRP Review & Comment System. The Review & Comment system will accept comments from September 19 – November 21, 2024. The USGCRP Review & Comment System can also be accessed via the Federal Register Notice.

USGCRP is conducting the First National Nature Assessment to assess changes in nature as an aspect of global change. The scope of NNA1 is to assess the status, observed trends, and future projections of America’s lands, waters, wildlife, biodiversity, and ecosystems and the benefits they provide, including connections to the economy, public health, equity, climate mitigation and adaptation, and national security.

In developing NNA1, USGCRP will follow the principles of a use-inspired, knowledge-informed assessment, in which the design is driven both by the potential uses of the final products and by science and other forms of knowledge. USGCRP recognizes the importance of lived experiences and acknowledges Indigenous Knowledge as an important form of evidence. Across all phases of NNA1, USGCRP aims to be inclusive, represent diverse perspectives, and create products that are accessible to the widest possible audience.

All comments must be submitted via the USGCRP Review & Comment System by November 21, 2024 at 11:59 pm EDT.

If you have any questions or process concerns, please contact us at engagement@usgcrp.gov.