Climate change discussion set for Thursday in Columbia Falls

A panel discussion on climate change is set for Thursday in Columbia Falls.

The event is coordinated by the Flathead County Democratic Central Committee, features local experts and advocates seeking solutions to climate change.

It takes place at 6 p.m. at Glacier Lanes, 307 Nucleus Ave.

Representatives from Climate Smart Glacier Country, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Wild Montana, and Our Children’s Trust will be led in the conversation by former Montana State Representative Debo Powers, President of Wild Montana.

"Our planet is getting hotter, and this is starting to affect our enjoyment of life, our economy, and the natural world around us," Powers said. "This is the biggest threat facing us and our children and grandchildren, but our society continues business as usual, leaving us frozen in despair."

"The best antidote to despair is hope and action,” Powers adds. “We still have time to make changes that will mitigate the effects of climate change."

Climate Smart Glacier Country works to engage the public to find local solutions to climate-created challenges to water and food security, public health, and recreation.

Citizens' Climate Lobby works on national policies by building relationships with elected officials and local media in 580 chapters world-wide.

Wild Montana is helping communities thrive by building trust, fostering collaboration, and forging agreements to protect the wild, confront climate change, and enhance public land access.

Our Children's Trust is working to secure the legal rights of youth to a healthy atmosphere and safe climate, based on the best available science.

FCDCC Chairwoman Lynn Stanley said this and previous events have been organized to shed light on and stimulate conversation and solutions to some of the most critical problems facing Montanans and local community leaders.

"Solving these problems requires citizen participation, Democrats and Republicans, Libertarians and Independents, all working together," she said.

The event is free and open to the public.

Attendees will have a chance to ask questions of the panelists following an hour-long moderated discussion.