Sand Prairie is moderately-low to moderately vulnerable to climate change (when evaluated in low to high climate change emissions scenarios). The Sand Prairie environment is intrinsically hot and arid, plants are adapted to growing on infertile soils and thus the species that grow in this natural community are able to resist potential climate change threats such as drought and extreme heat. It’s possible that the frequency, intensity and timing of precipitation along with increased dry periods between rains may affect groundwater infiltration and increase drought stress. Fire is a very important disturbance regime for this natural community, yet the altered frequency, intensity and timing of precipitation and drought may influence the use of prescribed fire. Additionally, the potential for increased non-native invasions and brush growth could dramatically change fuel characteristics and microclimates. If spring prescribed burns are followed by drought, negative impacts may be incurred on this natural community. Frost injury may affect Sand Prairie plants (especially overwintering seedlings of winter annuals) due to the reduced thickness of an insulating snowpack in winter and deeper frost penetration during cold snaps. Invasion of brush and non-native invasives is also a concern. Connected sites with alternate habitat niches may allow resident plants and other species to shift to more hospitable environments in response to a changing climate.