Our Approach

Community engagement in resilience science typically relies on expert-driven approaches. This limits the process to the expert’s view. The Rural Confluence team will be led by community member input. Key issues for the community will be our focus and working alongside the community will lead to new insights, an increased trust in science, and community-customized action plans for resilience.

A circular diagram with a blue ring containing text related to a strategic plan, with arrows pointing in a clockwise direction and various callouts highlighting different aims and actions.
Main street with parked cars in front of small shops and buildings, clear blue sky, trees and streetlights along the sidewalk.

Aim 1: Co-develop Conceptual Framework within Communities

Researchers will co-develop goals, priorities and a conceptual framework which will lead to climate resilience action plans tailored for the community.

Flooded field with water covering the ground, damaged fence, and debris, with trees and cloudy sky in the background.

Aim 2: Develop Long-term Forecasts of Local Climate Impacts

Ecosystem services, drought monitoring, population changes and flood impacts are just a few of the data sets researchers will use to identify ways that climate change might impact the community in the future.

A red zigzag line drawn on cracked, dry ground in a forested area with green foliage and trees in the background.

Aim 3: Develop Action Plans

Researchers will leverage knowledge gained from community members in Aim 1 and data gathered in Aim 2 to assist communities in developing strategies and action plans to build climate resilience for their communities.

Farmer standing in muddy field with water, surrounded by rows of corn plants at sunset.

Aim 4: Expand STEM Participation and Workforce Development

Researchers will work within the local schools to develop Communities of Practice for K-12 and post secondary educators for climate curriculum; rural scholars will be embedded into the communities and we will work with local industry leaders to develop certificate or micro-credential programs directly related to the community.

By bringing together the strengths of diverse individuals, communities, disciplines, and institutions from across the Mississippi River basin, the Rural Confluence project will advance the science and practice of rural climate resilience while creating sustainable improvements in rural STEM capacity.

A map of the United States highlighting water bodies, rivers, and flood zones with various colors indicating flood risk levels.