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Abstract
Predicted climate changes in the Gulf Coast bioregion include increased air and sea surface temperatures, altered fire regimes and rainfall patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, rising sea levels, increased hurricane intensity, and potential destruction of coastal wetlands and the species that reside within them. Prolonged drought conditions, storm surges, and rising sea levels may reduce availability of freshwater resources, alter river and wetland hydrology, increase erosion, and induce changes in the distribution of coastal plant and animals species. For example, intense hurricane activity may decrease survival of endangered Florida manatees, and sea level rise may allow mangrove habitats to expand at the expense of upland habitat areas. Coastal development, dredging, reservoir construction, diversion of surface water, and groundwater pumping may exacerbate the effects of climate changes on biotic communities.
Citation
Loehman, Rachel; Anderson, Greer. 2010. Understanding the science of climate change: Talking points - Impacts to the Gulf Coast. Natural Resource Report NPS/NRPC/NRR-2010/210. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Natural Resource program Center. 33 p.
