Nation’s ecosystems already stressed
This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.
Even without global warming factored in, we’re in deep trouble, according to the Heinz Center, which releases its ‘State of the Nation’s Ecosystems’ report this week.
Among the report’s conclusions: At least one contaminant was detected in all U.S. streams and three-quarters of wells. So don’t eat the fish, because four out of five fish tested were contaminated, mostly with polychlorinated biphenyls (see the Greka post), and the pesticide DDT.
Nitrate levels exceed federal standards in 21% of groundwater and 13% of streams in agricultural areas, the report said. Nitrates feed algae blooms that deplete oxygen and create dead zones, such as the one in the Gulf of Mexico, which has doubled to 7,900 square miles in recent decades.
The good news? There’s more green out there to absorb carbon: 150 million metric meters of vegetation has been added to the nation’s forests from 1995-2005. Then again, that’s more fuel for wildfires.
The non-profit, non-partisan center is named for former U.S. Sen. H. John Heinz III and is ‘dedicated to improving the scientific and economic foundation for environmental policy,’ according to its website.
-- Geoffrey Mohan
