How climate's future could impact New York's history - Times Union

How climate's future could impact New York's history
Aerial view of the Hudson River in Troy showing flooding following Tropical Storm Irene in 2011. Climate change is a threat to history in more way than one, say historians contributing to an upcoming state study. (Will Waldron/Times Union) Will Waldron

Across the state, extreme weather — including hurricanes, rising sea levels and the heat island effect — are changing the way people live. But the impacts of climate change will also affect economies and culture, prompting the state Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to launch a two-year assessment of the state’s future.

Around 80 people in different parts of the state are working on sections of the study examining climate impacts on transportation, agriculture, energy and more. Last summer, Long Lake Town Historian Hallie Bond joined the team to research how climate change will alter community culture — including historical societies and museums.