Ecosystems


Oil Expansion Plans Create Large Risk for Straits of Mackinac

A Canadian pipeline company plans to expand the amount of oil it pumps through the Straits of Mackinac, but the National Wildlife Federation warns that this would greatly increase the risk of an oil spill that would environmentally and economically desecrate the area.

Brook Restoration Project Begins in Massachusetts

Officials from the Department of Fish and Games (DFG), river advocates, and federal and local partners celebrated by beginning of the Amethyst Brook Restoration on Oct. 17, 2012.

Army Corps Commander Tours Everglades Project

Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Bostick, commanding general of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, reviewed progress being made on the Tamiami Trail Modifications project, part of the largest environmental restoration projects the agency is handling.

Global Warming Creates Change in Species Interactions

According to a recent study, climate change was found to typically lead to local extinctions and declines by influencing interactions between species, such as reducing prey populations for predators. Little evidence has been found to support declining or extinct species due to direct effects of higher temperatures.

Deer and Antelope Cross Roads More Safely in Wyoming

Scientists with the Wildlife Conservations Society (WCS) announced the construction of new overpasses in Wyoming is complete. The overpasses are located over U.S. Highway 191 and provide a safe passage for migrating pronghorn in Trapper’s Point, Wyoming, and surrounding areas.

Disney Plans to Minimize Use of Paper

The company's new Paper Sourcing and Use Policy announced Oct. 11 took effect immediately.

NYC Commences Huge Upgrade of Sewer and Water infrastructure

New York City begins fourth phase of sewer and water infrastructure that will help alleviate roadway flooding in Springfield Gardens, Queens.

Universities Begin Protection Project for Great Lakes

More than 20 universities in the U.S. and Canada team up with the University of Michigan to propose research and policy priorities to help restore and protect the Great Lakes.



Recent Droughts Could Become the Norm

Evidence uncovered by a University of Tennessee, Knoxville, geography professor suggests recent droughts could be the new normal, which is particularly bad for U.S. forests.

Rising Acidity in Oceans Posts Threat to Shellfish and Humans

The acidity in the oceans is rising, which will ultimately threaten marine animals, the seafood industry, and the health of humans who consume the affected shellfish.

Ice-Capable NSF Research Vessel Launched

The R/V/ Sikuliaq is the U.S. academic fleet's first global class, ice-capable ship owned by the National Science Foundation. Its home port is the University of Alaska, Fairbanks’ Seward Marine Center in Seward, Alaska.

Protected River in Florida Still in Decline

The Wekiva River in Florida is still in failing health, despite being one of the most protected waterways in the U.S.

Study to Determine Water Amount Needed for Steelhead Fish to Flourish

CITRIS researchers will implant 40 to 50 anadromous steelhead trout with acoustic tags to determine how much water they need in order to thrive.

TD Bank Committed to Protecting Forests

On Oct. 10, 2012, TD Banks announced its plans to start protecting forests by decreasing paper usage within the company.

New Citizen Support Organization for State Parks in Florida

The Friends of Gamble Rogers State Park is a new citizen support organization that supports The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach and North Peninsula State Park.

Study Proposes to Help Save Migratory Fish

Colleagues at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln conducted a study in order to offer fish the same protection as migratory birds.

Washington State Proposes Updates for Low Emission Vehicle Standards

The state's Department of Ecology announced routine updates for low emission vehicle standards in order to stay compliant with federal and state laws.

Coral Reef Research Facility Opens in Florida

The new center is the only facility in the country completely dedicated to the ecosystem science of coral reefs.

Growing Greener Plus Grants Offered by the Pennsylvania DEP

Growing Greener Plus Grants Offered by the Pennsylvania DEP

Washington DNR Extends Burn Ban, Plans Wildfire Workshop

Forest landowners are invited to the Oct. 13 workshop to discuss assessing fire severity and vegetation impacts.