Herrera Supports Community-Led Climate Resilience Projects Across the Country

By Rachel Johnson

Communities across the US are finding innovative ways to adapt to a changing climate and address pollution. Herrera recently supported two communities, in Montana and Missouri, in developing climate resilience projects through an EPA technical assistance program. We are thankful for our fantastic partnerships with Climate Resilience Counsulting, CIS, Mithun, and Design Workshop. We commend the project teams at the City of Missoula and the St. Louis Arts Chamber of Commerce who are building inspiring visions of climate resilient futures for their communities! 

Sharing knowledge from the Northwest
Historically, many communities have lacked the resources to develop detailed federal grant applications. Recognizing this, the EPA developed a technical assistance program to support communities applying for the Community Change Equitable Resilience (CCER) grant, a momentous $2B grant program funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. Herrera provided grant technical assistance on Climate Resilience Consulting’s team, supporting applicants in building out their proposal through design expertise, technical writing, and developing metrics and budgets. We drew from our knowledge and expertise in green infrastructure, natural resources, and climate resilience planning from the Northwest to develop ideas for designs and approaches in the Midwest and Mountain West. Final design concepts included resilience hubs, community gathering places, learning gardens, green infrastructure, pedestrian and bike improvements, workforce development, and so much more. (See here for design highlights from communities across the Midwest and Mountain West). 

Inspiration from across the US
Projects need champions and we met some fantastic ones!  We are in awe of the forward-thinking community leaders we supported and the visions they are building of stronger community climate resilience. We particularly enjoyed having the opportunity to join in-person site visits and design charettes. We left feeling energized by the conversations, ideas, and enthusiasm that we heard from community members and local leaders. These project teams understand that climate resilience is not a one-size-fits-all approach and are working hard to make adaptation plans that fit the needs and priorities of their communities. Regardless of the grant outcome, we will be cheering you on and are eager to see your visions become reality!

Clark fork