Abstract: Based on the questionnaires concerning general public apprehension on climate and cryosphere changes in the Urumqi River basin, this paper attempted to explain the characteristics of the public perception, reasons for the similarities, differences with reported scientific conclusions and potential impacts of environment changes on water resources and agricultural production. The paper also analyzed public choice of adaptation measures, with conclusions as follows: 1) the public tend to choose adaptation measures such as system changes and infrastructure construction which were generally led by government or decision-making authorities; 2) the public tend to take initiatives to avoid the adverse natural environment, such as simply relocating their residence; 3) the public perception on the urgent situation of participating in adaptation measures is still insufficient; 4) implementation of such adaptation measures should be in accordance with local conditions, and require the integration of “open source” and “cost-cutting” measures as well.