Union of Concerned Scientists

Introduction Climate Projections Wetlands Fisheries Coastal Development Freshwater Resources Agriculture & Forestry Human Health LA Resources & Links

Although massive efforts are already underway to restore the state's precious coastal wetlands, global warming threatens to undermine these efforts and intensify the existing threats to this valuable ecosystem. An additional threat to wetlands comes from the possibility of increased droughts and lack of freshwater runoff into coastal wetlands due to a changing climate. This could increase the "brown marsh" phenomenon, or marsh dieback, as illustrated by the extended drought from 1998-2000.

These natural resources, already stressed from human pressures, are at risk of further damage from human-induced climate change. Historically, Louisiana's climate is highly variable and sometimes extreme—climate change may intensify this pattern. There is already evidence of a warming and changing climate in the state.

An accelerating loss of wetlands would have significant consequences. For example, as wetlands vanish:

• Natural services performed by wetlands, such as retaining and purifying water, stabilizing sediments, and protecting coastal areas from storm surges, would be lost. These natural services are valued at millions of dollars.
  
  
• Wildlife species such as waterfowl, alligators, and fur-bearing animals, which depend on this unique habitat for their survival would be seriously threatened.
  
  
• Hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities would be negatively affected.