Submitted by Dan Frost on Thu, 03/28/2013 - 09:37
Forums
Northern Alaska Coastal Ecosystems

Hi Jill,

Are there any examples of similar river river discharge sites on your own Texas coast that could compare to that which you are studying in Alaska?

Looking forward to following your adventure!

Best, Dan

PolarTREC Svalbard 2012

Fri, 03/29/2013 - 08:46

Jill Smith

Hi Dan,What a great question! I had not thought of this, probably because of the answer. Texas has dammed virtually all of their rivers for recreational and/or hydro-power use. Therefore, what water does reach the coast does so in a very low volume trickle. This has had significant impact on coastal wetlands as they are being starved for freshwater which is necessary for completion of the life cycles of many organisms. The endangered whooping cranes rely on blue crab which require fresh water inflow to survive and reproduce. So, I doubt that here are comparable river discharge systems, but thanks for bringing the possibility to my attention.
I'll keep you posted,
Jill

Fri, 03/29/2013 - 11:34

Dan Frost

Hi Jill,Thanks for the response! That is a human dynamic I had completely forgotten in looking at your situation. Good luck and great work this week getting things started!
Best,
Dan