The University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership (MCAP) offers critical resources and training to help communities respond to changing climate conditions and prepare for the years to come.
Affiliated with both University of Minnesota Extension and the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, MCAP performs foundational climate research while also offering hands-on support to individuals and organizations across a range of backgrounds and industries in Minnesota, the Midwest region, and beyond.
Learn more about MCAP here.
Region Nine Development Commission’s
MCAP Contacts
Samuel Sharp
Energy and Sustainability Planner
See Biography
763-302-9575
samuel@rndc.org
Jessica Beyer
Deputy Director
See Biography
507-646-9631
jessica@rndc.org
Homeowner Checklists
https://climate.umn.edu/homeowners-checklists
These checklists were developed by the University of MN are designed to help Minnesota homeowners understand and prepare for local weather and climate risks.
They address five major threats facing the state:
- flooding
- wildfire
- extreme heat
- wind and hail
- snow and ice
They were developed in collaboration with the design firm HGA. The checklists contain suggestions for both new construction and retrofits of existing properties, with options at a range of price points. Some strategies may require a design professional or contractor.
Cost of Inaction
https://climate.umn.edu/cost-study
This study — submitted to the Legislature on March 16, 2026 — shows that climate change is expensive for Minnesotans and provides an evidence-supported estimate of adaptation investments to address climate impacts. These figures represent not just government costs, but also costs that everyday Minnesotans will pay.
Without proactive investments in preparedness and adaptation, Minnesota could expect to see more than $20 billion in damages each year by 2040. By the year 2070, if global greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise and we don’t take proactive measures to adapt, the estimated annual costs could exceed $50 billion.
The report also show there are well-documented and effective solutions available. The report presents opportunities for adaptation across key economic sectors in Minnesota, including health, agriculture, energy systems, transportation, and ecosystems.
MCAP Resilience Stories
https://climate.umn.edu/climate-resilience-stories
This library of short-form videos features the people, communities, and innovative projects leading the charge for climate resilience in our state. These stories celebrate regional successes and offer practical, real-world examples of people working together to build a more climate-ready future.
