Let's talk climate impact on wildlands Arizona's climate is changing. Statistics show that we are, on average, 2.7-degrees warmer now than a century ago. This is causing major problems for our wildlife, wildlands and the outdoor heritage we enjoy in Arizona. Ongoing drought conditions are affecting many wildlife populations. Forests throughout northern Arizona are dying off from beetle infestations that are partially caused by higher winter temperatures. Wildfires like the Rodeo-Chediski Fire near Cibeque in 2002 are getting bigger and burning unnaturally hotter. Habitually low water levels in Lake Mead and Lake Powell are impacting fish production and reducing boating opportunities. The list goes on and on. In Arizona, the topic of climate change remains controversial. The "sky is falling" mentality of the left combined with the "head in the sand " naysayers on the right prevent reasoned discussion. With Arizona's outdoor heritage at stake, this is a shame....