The aim is to improve understanding of vulnerabilities of rural agricultural and indigenous communities to climate variability and to the frequency and intensity of extreme climate events, and to engage governance institutions in Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Colombia in enhancing adaptive capacity. The report summarizes projects in these countries, and includes a bibliography of research outputs. The analysis of current vulnerabilities in the context of projected shifts in climate variability and the frequency and intensity of extreme events produces important insights into future risks and opportunities, informing the adoption of appropriate local practices and adjustments to governance policies