This project, conducted by a 2025 Dow Sustainability Fellows team in partnership with Michigan’s Office of Rural Prosperity, aimed to reduce informational barriers that hinder climate-resilient planning in understaffed rural communities. The team analyzed projected climate impacts, identified best practices for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience, and reviewed case studies from across the U.S. to develop actionable recommendations. Research included statewide conferences, expert roundtables, and interviews with municipal planners to ensure guidance was current and practical. The resulting report outlines strategies for building local capacity, fostering community buy-in, and launching climate resilience projects, while the complementary toolkit provides quick, actionable guidance. Key recommendations emphasize youth leadership, regional partnerships, proactive project planning, and reframing climate challenges as opportunities for rural innovation, empowering communities to thrive amid climate change.

This report summarizes the team’s work.