In broad strokes, the impacts of climate change on West Texas are known. Average temperatures will rise at least 4 degrees by 2050 – and, if global emissions continue apace, 8 degrees by the end of the century. Annual rainfall will likely decline, and droughts become more frequent and intense.

The effects on animals and plants, on the landscape itself, are certain to be profound. But predicting those effects is no simple matter.

On Jan. 18, at Sul Ross State University's Espino Conference Center, a coalition of conservation groups hosts a conference on the implications of climate change for West Texas. Texas Tech botanist Dylan Schwilk will be a featured speaker. His work highligh... Hosted by for KRTS