On the Rio Grande—historically the wellspring for more than five million people in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico—coping with scarcity has become a reality, and water management and use in the region may be a leading example of how to adapt to drier times. 

For over 15 years, NOAA's Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA) program has been supporting research teams that conduct interdisciplinary and regionally relevant research to inform resource management, planning, and public policy. The program's new 2011 annual report contains a description of the major activities and accomplishments of the RISAs in 2011.

NOAA today announced three new Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA) awards, totaling $11 million over five years, to climate science collaborations in Alaska, California/Nevada, and the Carolinas.

Forum focused on providing detailed assessment of the region's drought conditions, impacts, and predictions for next season.

On April 19-21, 2011 fire, weather and climate specialists convened virtually via teleconference and web meeting for the ninth annual National Seasonal Assessment Workshop.