NEWSWAVE NEWS FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR: OCEAN, GREAT LAKES, AND COASTS

Special Feature—Shorebird Conservation, see p. 16 Fall 2020

USGS Scientists Long Wharf Nature Respond to 2020 Preserve Hurricanes Habitat Conservation in the By USGS Big City When subtropical storm Theta formed By Chris Eng (USFWS) on November 10th, the 2020 hurri- Nature has a positive effect on cane season became the most active people’s health and happiness. With on record. 80 percent of Americans living in Tropical storms, hurricanes, and other Deputy Secretary Kate MacGregor (at left) cities, it is important for people to large coastal storms can affect coastal and Norway's Ambassador to the United maintain a connection with nature. and inland communities and ecosys- States Kåre R. Aas at the signing ceremony. The natural world also provides other tems with high winds, storm surge, Photo credit: Faith Vander Voort, DOI benefits for local communities. erosion, and flooding. The U.S. Geo- Read more: https://medium.com/usfws/ logical Survey (USGS) works with DOI and Norway investing-in-nature-e33b4f09472e partners and emergency managers to Strengthen Partnership Local communities are recognizing provide science and build capabilities By DOI the important value of nature and are that reduce risk and improve situ- On August 18, the U.S. Department working to conserve natural places. ational awareness when a major storm New Haven, CT, has a long tradi- makes landfall. of the Interior (DOI) formalized its partnership with the Ministry of tion of conserving nature. The city When a major storm threatens the Petroleum and Energy of the Kingdom is built around a green space known United States or its territories, the of Norway to strengthen cooperation as the New Haven Green (Green). USGS provides comprehensive sci- in offshore mineral, oil and gas, and The elm trees surrounding the Green entific capabilities and information wind-energy activities. Deputy Secre- were planted in 1686 as part of the See Hurricanes page 9 tary of the Interior Katharine Mac- first public tree-planting program and Gregor and Norwegian Ambassador gave the city its nickname, Elm City. See Norway page 23 See Long Wharf page 14 Shorebird populations are in decline. A collection of stories shows how DOI fufills its conservation mission. See Special Feature 20 page 16 10

0 Declines over the last four decades document −10 a 37-percent loss of shorebird species. Image −20 credit: North American Percent change −30 Bird Conservation Initiative, U.S. Committee −40 2019, The State of Stewardship of birds, including this sandpiper −50 the Birds, 2019, and (Scolopacidae sp.) chick, is an important part of the DOI 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 U.S. Cornell Lab of mission. Photo credit: Lisa Kennedy, USFWS Year Ornithology NEWSWAVE • Fall 2020

Connect to Images and Multimedia via Social Media In This Edition LIKE and FOLLOW us on Facebook: 2020 Hurricanes...... 1 https://www.facebook.com/USInterioroceanscoastsgreatlakes/ DOI and Norway...... 1 Long Wharf Nature Preserve...... 1 Geologic Evolution of Delmarva Peninsula Provides Key to Junior Duck Stamp Program...... 3 Understanding Future Coastal Vulnerability New Sites on Rota...... 4 Accomplishments for A recent article in Marine Geology used extensive data collected by the USGS Coastal Conservation...... 5 on the continental shelf of the IUUF—Addressing a Problem...... 7 Delmarva Peninsula to define the 2017 Hurricane Recovery Funds...... 11 region’s geologic framework. This understanding lays the groundwork Offshore Sediment...... 11 to better understand the geologic Living Shorelines...... 12 evolution from 2.6 million years Wetland Conservation...... 13 ago up to present day. This helps Sea-Level Rise...... 15 scientists understand present-day Special Feature: coastal vulnerability and is useful Shorebird Conservation ...... 16 for delineating potential sediment Managing Migratory Shorebirds...... 16 resources (for example, sand) Conserving Migrant Shorebirds...... 17 and hazards to development (for Advancing Avian Conservation...... 18 example, paleochannels). Business Plan...... 19 Read the article: 20th Anniversary of NMBCA...... 20 http://ow.ly/HqyI50BbScW Anniversary of Counting Birds...... 21 Learn more: http://ow.ly/ Loons Losing Lakes...... 22 QOXZ50BbSbc Food Web Changes...... 23 Rapid Post-Hurricane Data...... 24 Gridded seismic stratigraphic horizon Potential Hazards in Glacier Bay...... 25 shows the depth to the top of Tertiary- age sediments overlain on the present Coastal Change Happens...... 26 shoreline with modern rivers labeled. Scientists Map Tectonic Structure...... 27 Mapping Geohazards...... 28 Coastal Change Mapping...... 29 NEWSWAVE is a quarterly newsletter from the Department of the Interior featuring ocean, Great Lakes, and coastal activities across the Bureaus. Sea Change, Shipping, and Species...... 31 Visit us online: https://www.doi.gov/ocean/newswave The Surfing Bison...... 32 Editor: Ann Tihansky (USGS) Technical Editor: Rebekah Davis (USGS); Layout: Bethany Fuss (USGS) Contributors: USGS Jin-Si Over, USGS BOEM Matt Baker, USGS Meg Palmsten, USGS DOI Patrick Barnard, USGS Robert Schmitt, USGS Tanya Joshua, DOI Kevin Befus, USGS Curt Storlazzi, USGS Tami Heilemann, DOI Erin Bessette-Kirton, USGS Ann Tihansky, USGS Faith Vander Voort, DOI Uri ten Brink, USGS Lisa Wald, USGS NPS Antonio Celis-Murillo, USGS Erica Warner, USGS Stacia Backensto, NPS Rob Clendening, USGS Janet Watt, USGS Contribute to NEWSWAVE! Donna Hauser, NPS Jeffrey Coe, USGS NOAA Heather Dewar, USGS Mark Bias, USACE If you have any questions, Deanna Ochs, NPS David Swanson, NPS Kara Doran, USGS The Forecaster comments or want to receive Sarah Swanson, NPS Li H. Erikson, USGS Firefly Imageworks NEWSWAVE by email, contact: USFWS Sara Ernst, USGS Global Fishing Watch Ann Tihansky: [email protected] Brad Andres, USFWS Meaghan Faletti, USGS New Haven Land Trust Chris Eng, USFWS Juliette Finzi-Hart, USGS North American Bird For more information, contact: Steve Hillebrand, USFWS Jessica Fitzpatrick, USGS Conservation Initiative Liza Johnson, Ocean, Great Lakes, Lisa Hupp, USFWS Ann E. Gibbs, USGS U.S. Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Coasts Coordinator, Office of Lisa Kennedy, USFWS John Haines, USGS Bill Hubick, photographer the Assistant Secretary for Insular Amanda Lawrence, USFWS; Jenna Hill, USGS Sydney Johnson, and International Affairs 2020 Knauss Fellow Kyle Kelso, USGS photographer 1849 C Street, NW, Mail Stop 3117 Bridget Macdonald, USFWS Dave Krabbenhoft, USGS Kristin Laidre, photographer Washington, D.C. 20240 Taylor Pool, USFWS Alex Laffoon, USGS Kirk Rogers, photographer Erica Roberts, USFWS Drew LaPointe, USGS Sara L. Tolwin, photographer Telephone: 202–208–1378 Nathan Miller, USGS Gabe Wolken, photographer [email protected] Daniel Opstal, USGS

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Junior Duck Stamp Program—Art and Science Come Together for Conservation The Federal Junior Duck Stamp The program began in 1989 as an Conservation and Design Program extension of the Migratory Bird is a dynamic art- and science-based Conservation and Hunting Stamp, curriculum that teaches wetland and commonly known as the Federal Duck waterfowl conservation to students Stamp. The national Junior Duck in kindergarten through high school. Stamp art contest started in 1993 with The program crosses cultural, ethnic, eight participating States. By 2000, social, and geographic boundar- the program included all 50 States, Madison Grimm, a 13-year-old from South ies, encouraging students to explore the District of Columbia, and the Dakota, took top honors in the USFWS their natural world and to investigate U.S. territories. The program encour- National Junior Duck Stamp art contest with biology and wildlife management ages partnerships among Federal and her acrylic rendition of an wood duck (Aix principles. By challenging students State government agencies, nongov- sponsa). Her artwork is on the 2020–21 Junior to express and share what they have ernment organizations, businesses, Duck Stamp and supports conservation learned with others, this educational and volunteers to help recognize education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Photo credit: USFWS program fosters greater awareness of and honor thousands of teachers and our Nation’s natural resources. students throughout the United States are encouraged to communicate visu- for their participation in conservation- Winning artwork selected from a ally what they have learned through related activities. national art contest is used as the an entry into the Junior Duck Stamp Learn more: https://www.fws.gov/ design for the Junior Duck Stamp, art contest. This nontraditional pairing which the U.S. Fish and Wildlife birds/education/junior-duck-stamp- conservation-program/junior-duck- of subjects brings new interest to the Service (USFWS) produces annually stamp-contest-information.php sciences and the arts. and is a popular collector’s item. All Explore the curriculum: https:// revenue from the sale of the $5 Junior The four-part curriculum guide with www.fws.gov/birds/education/junior- Duck Stamps goes to support recog- activities and resources assists stu- duck-stamp-conservation-program/ nition and environmental education dents in exploring science in real-life conservation-education-curriculum. activities for students who participate situations. Using scientific and wild- in the program. life observation principles, students php

Duck Stamps—Put Your Stamp on Conservation One of the easiest ways that anyone can support bird habitat conservation is by buying Federal Duck Stamps, which is among the most successful conservation tools ever created to protect habitat for birds and other wildlife. Federal Duck Stamps are conservation revenue stamps; 98 percent of the purchase price goes directly to help acquire and protect wetland habitat and to purchase conservation easements for the NWR System. Wetlands acquired with Duck Stamp dollars help purify water, aid in flood control, reduce soil erosion and sedimentation, and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities. 2021–22 Federal Duck Stamp winner Richard Clifton’s acrylic painting of a single lesser scaup (Aythya affinis) drake. Photo credit: USFWS

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New Sites on Rota (CNMI) and Rota Municipal govern- proceedings with the National Park ments and action by the United States Service,” said Interior Assistant Secre- Considered for Congress.” tary, Insular and International Affairs, U.S. National Park In September, the NPS held a series Douglas W. Domenech. In December Service System of virtual public meetings where NPS 2019, Domenech visited many of the park staff and planners discussed the important sites that are included in the By Tanya Joshua (DOI) preliminary findings of the Rota Spe- current study, including the archaeo- According to the National Park cial Resource Study and gathered pub- logical site that houses the largest latte Service (NPS), Rota in the Com- lic thoughts and ideas. The meetings stones found in the Mariana Islands monwealth of the Northern Mariana were recorded for people to stream and the limestone forest, which has Islands is a special place with signifi- and share. Comments were accepted been identified in the NPS study as the cant cultural and natural resources. from August 26 to October 26, 2020. most intact of its kind across the entire A recent study concluded that the United States and its territories. “We applaud the National Park Chamorro archaeological sites, the Learn More Service from the regional San Fran- World War II Japanese defensive sites, cisco office, assisted by Superinten- Rota Special Resource Study: https:// and the ancient limestone forests are dent Barbara Alberti and her staff, in parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome. the most intact found anywhere in these efforts. We also applaud Rota cfm?projectId=65104 the United States and notable due to Mayor Atalig and his team, includ- https://www.facebook.com/ the species diversity. These resources ing CNMI leaders and all stakehold- americanmemorialpark are deemed to be nationally signifi- ers for their continued support and cant and suitable for inclusion in the Rota newsletter: https://parkplanning. ongoing efforts to ascertain whether National Park System. Based on these nps.gov/document.cfm?parkID=4 these important historical, cultural, preliminary findings, NPS staff devel- 22&projectID=65104&documen and natural resources on Rota will be oped concepts for the preservation tID=106250 deemed suitable for inclusion in the and public enjoyment of these sites. National Park System. We encourage Office of Insular Affairs on Face- The next steps involved engaging with the public and especially the people book: https://www.facebook.com/ the community. of the CNMI to engage fully in these InsularAffairs On August 26, the NPS announced that it would conduct a series of virtual public meetings to share the study’s preliminary findings and to engage stakeholders and the public in discussions about several preliminary alternative concepts for the future. “The National Park Ser- vice is pleased to share our preliminary findings and hear from the public their thoughts for how these special resources may be managed in the future,” said NPS Act- ing Director Margaret Everson. “Establishing a unit of the National Park System in Rota would require the support of the Images of Rota’s natural and cultural resources that are part of the NPS study are Rota’s rare limestone forest Commonwealth of the resources and archaeological sites as pictured (Måya Latte Site Complex, As Nieves Latte Quarry, and the Northern Mariana Islands Ginalagan Defensive Complex from WWII). Image credits: NPS

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Nationwide Accomplishments for Coastal Conservation By Amanda Lawrence (USFWS) U.S. coastal habitats are economically one of the largest undeveloped wet- significant and ecologically complex. land ecosystems on the Atlantic Coast. Managing these types of ecosys- Not all NWRs are staffed at full tems, therefore, requires a thought- capacity with certified firefighters to ful balance of working landscapes carry out controlled and prescribed and habitat conservation strategies. burns. During early 2019 in South The USFWS Coastal Program works Carolina, the USFWS Coastal Pro- around the Nation to specifically gram and Ecological Services staff protect and conserve these habitats joined NWR staff in filling that void for the benefit of fish, wildlife, and by taking the opportunity to help out people. Coastal habitats require a set with some greatly needed controlled of management tools that are equally burns on the refuge. The staff had as unique and dynamic as the habitats previously received their Wildland are. From constructing ponds and Fire Incident Qualifications, called a protecting federally threatened Puerto “red card.” They needed to take their Rican crested toad habitat to removing annual refresher course and undergo fish passage barriers for Coho salmon physical exams and testing to enable (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in Alaska, the them to assist with any burns for management strategies required for The 2019 USFWS Coastal Program’s Annual the year. Coastal projects vary greatly. Accomplishment Report highlights the Two burns were prescribed and con- breadth of ecosystems, types of projects, and Here we highlight two of these many ducted. The planning and strategy that successful projects; the first using fire partners that are involved with the Coastal Program. Learn more: https://www.fws.gov/ went into each of these burns were as a management strategy, and the sec- coastal/pdfs/Annual-Accomplishment-Report- very different. The first burn took ond where children created an outdoor (508-compliant)-2020-06-29.pdf place in an overgrown wetland habitat classroom benefiting pollinators and alongside a river to reduce vegetation the local community. overgrowth and restore native species. The Power of Managing with Fire The second burn was carried out in a Fire is an important tool for manag- pine forest bordered by a busy road- ing coastal habitat. At just under way. A priority was to focus on moni- 12,000 acres, the Ernest F. Hollings toring weather conditions to ensure Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Riv- wind would not compromise visibility ers (ACE) Basin National Wildlife on the road. This burn was carried out Refuge (NWR) is an undeveloped to reduce hazardous fuel (leaves and wetland ecosystem, part of which lies grasses that accumulate on the forest within the ACE Basin and represents floor); which can exacerbate naturally occurring wildfires. By burning and The USFWS’s Coastal Program is clearing this fuel, it restores natural a voluntary conservation initiative fauna, by allowing native grasses and that works with communities to species to thrive and creating space for restore and protect land and water native songbirds such as the Painted resources important to them. The bunting (Passerina ciris). A few days Coastal Program provides technical post-burn, with the pines standing and financial assistance for habitat tall and new green shoots poking out conservation on public and private In 2019, the USFWS supported 186 projects in 17 States contributing $2.4 million of the ash, the firefighters noted this lands along the coast, including the transformation was a success. Great Lakes, Alaska, and working with 83 partners to restore 16,400 acres and to bring communities Hawaii, and Puerto Both prescribed fires in the Ernest together leveraging $22 for every $1 funded Rico. by the USFWS Coastal Program. Image credit: F. Hollings ACE Basin NWR have helped to reduce future wildfire Learn more: http:// USFWS www.fws.gov/coastal/ threats to the wildlife and surrounding See Accomplishments page 6

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Getting “Red Card” Certified By Amanda Lawrence (USFWS and 2020 Knauss Fellow) A prescribed burn, also known as a controlled or hazard reduction burn, is an intentionally set fire that can provide management benefits for ecosystems from prairie land to forest. Prescribed burns can aid in invasive species removal and biodiversity restoration, abate greenhouse gases, and reduce future wildfires, as well as other ecological benefits. This type of burn is carried out by certified professionals under a set of conditions that accounts for public safety and the Restoring native plants at Deering Oaks Park safety of firefighters. To participate in controlled burns, each firefighter is required (Portland, ME) are Chris Meaney (USFWS) and to train and earn a red card. Red card certification is an interagency accepted status Conner Burns (right), one of 80 sixth-grade that indicates a person has received proper fire training and is qualified to do the participants from King Middle School. Photo fire-related job at hand when arriving on an incident. credit: The Forecaster I received my red card certification in 2014, as a requirement for Maryland Accomplishments continued from page 5 Conservation Corps employee for Americorps. Obtaining this certification requires community and have improved hours of intense training on all fire-related aspects, from how to evaluate weather 400 acres of critical habitat; this conditions to the various types of burns that can be carried out. I completed my habitat specifically provides homes for course training online via virtual classroom and completed exams for each of the the Wood stork (Mycteria americana) sections. Follow up in-person training was required to learn hands on skills such and other migratory shorebird spe- as how to effectively use a fire shelter and how to properly role up a firehose. The cies including herons, egrets, and ibis. successful completion of a pack test was the final step in obtaining my red card. The fire management tool promotes This part of the training required individuals to walk 3 miles with a 45-pound native species, providing homes for backpack in under 45 minutes. critical bird species and top preda- After many hours of online training, demonstrating basic hands-on fire skills tors such as the American alligator competency, and (Alligator mississippiensis) and Bald passing the pack eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). It test, I hold a red also provides a safer environment for card with my hikers, nature-goers, and bird watch- name on it. ers by reducing the risk of future and Learn more: possibly more dangerous and destruc- https://www.fws. tive wildfires. Natural elements like gov/fire/ fire bring restorative power to coastal ecosystems. Trained firefighters Students Create a Community on a controlled burn Classroom at Earnest F. Hollings Eighty sixth-grade students planted ACE Basin NWR. over 30 types of native species that Photo credit: USFWS restored an area in Deering Oaks Park for people and pollinators. King barren landscape to a native meadow- via QR codes printed and distributed Middle School sixth graders partici- like ecosystem for wildlife, birds, and around the park. The outdoor class- pated in the project, a collaborative pollinators. The intentions behind this room was shaped by combining the effort supported by Maine Audubon, project were indeed multidimensional; restored habitat at Deering Oaks Park City of Portland, ME, USFWS, and not only was habitat restored, but a with the ability to interact with educa- others, that is reaching and educating highly visited nature space within the tional resources, conveying the effects over 50,000 park visitors. The partner- City of Portland was enhanced for restoration can have on an ecosystem ship assisted teachers with planning, the many nature goers in surrounding and a community. The idea is that this scheduling, and coordinating; and communities. type of work demonstrates to visi- provided native seeds and necessary Back in the classroom, the students tors that it can truly be accomplished tools and equipment that empowered shared what they had learned. They anywhere. inner city youth of Maine to restore crafted animated online cartoons Learn more: https://www.pressherald. native tree and shrub species as part identifying and describing the plant com/2019/06/11/portland-middle- schoolers-bring-native-plants-back- of a long-term habitat restoration life at Deering Oaks Park and made to-deering-oaks/ project transforming a mowed and them accessible to the general public

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Illegal, Unlicensed, Unreported Fishing—Addressing a Challenging International Problem with Geospatial Information By Daniel Opstal (USGS) The ocean is a big place. Fish move the global freely around and across invisible economy political boundaries that are designed between $10 to help manage fish stocks, protect and $23 billion the fisheries and the economic poten- annually in tial they hold for nations around the global eco- world. Many marine policies, such as nomic losses. the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Con- There are many Screen grab from the Global Fishing Watch interactive map that provides servation and Management Act, the examples of geospatial information about fishing activity worldwide. The EEZ is shown Marine Mammal Protection Act, and these activi- in green, Marine protected areas are outlined in red, and blue areas are fishing activity on September 3, 2020. Image credit: Global Fishing Watch the Endangered Species Act (ESA), ties, from the are tools to help ensure compliance macro to the with fisheries regulations, to end micro ie: (1) A fishing fleet from one catches. Port inspectors don’t catch wasteful fishing practices, to promote nation explores waters just off another the illegal fishing. sustainability, and to prevent lost nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone economic potential associated with (EEZ), looking for opportunities to These two examples are just a few overfishing, declining species, and build its stocks of fish meal, (2) A lone of the immensely complex prob- degraded habitats. Even so, illegal, trawler turns off its Automatic Iden- lems facing fisheries managers in unlicensed, and unreported fishing tification System (AIS) and crosses their detection and deterrence efforts (IUUF) activities persist. The United into the EEZ, fishes, and cleverly against IUUF activities. They require Nations Food and Agriculture Orga- mixes its stocks in with legitimate an equally complex set of U.S. inter- nization estimates this problem costs agency and international partnerships to effectively combat them. One of the most important aspects of this issue is understanding and being able to monitor the problem in a geospatial context. To do that, the U.S. interagency Federal community countering this IUUF activity is using satellite remote-sensing data and other technologies to address the monitoring and enforcement of IUUF. One such example is the Vessel Management System, which is mandated in certain types of waters. The interagency Civil Applications Committee (CAC) is chartered by the Secretary of the Interior and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). The CAC facilitates the use of Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community overhead sat- ellite remote-sensing capabilities for

When commercial fishing activities follow rules and regulations, global fish stocks can be managed more sustainably. Photo credit: NOAA See IUU page 8

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Civil Applications • Land use, water use, and natural Principal Members resource management Committee • DOI • Law enforcement, regulatory, and • Department of Agriculture The CAC is an homeland security missions interagency committee • Department of Commerce that facilitates the • Derived information supporting • Department of Health and Human appropriate civil uses of overhead national policies and objectives Services remote-sensing technologies and data Examples of these activities include • Department of Transportation collected by military and intelligence monitoring volcanoes, sea ice, and • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) overhead capabilities, including glaciers; detecting and tracking • U.S. Coast Guard commercial remote sensing. wildfires; supporting emergency • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency The CAC, established in 1975 by response to natural disasters, such as (EPA) President Ford, is chaired by the USGS hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods; • Federal Emergency Management by Charter (signatories are the DNI and monitoring invasive species, Agency ecosystems, and global change. In and the Secretary of Interior). CAC • National Science Foundation sponsored activities cooperation with the USGS National Civil Applications Center (NCAC), the • National Aeronautics and Space include the following: CAC certifies that requested data will Administration • Mapping, charting, and geodesy be properly used and coordinates • Tennessee Valley Authority collection. The CAC also supports For more information contact: CAC • Hazard, disaster, and public health remote-sensing research and Executive Secretary: Dan Opstal assessments development activities at USGS facilities Email: [email protected] • Environmental monitoring such as the Advanced Systems Center/ NCAC, where exploitation tools are • Scientific research, such as Earth available to CAC scientists and analysts. system investigation

IUU continued from page 7 meetings will be held in concert with Learn More interagency partners implementing the Regional Vessel Monitoring Informa- appropriate use by the U.S. Federal Maritime SAFE Act. tion: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/ Civil Community (see sidebar). These activities are working to ensure national/enforcement/regional-vessel- In February 2020, the interagency that U.S. Federal civil government monitoring-information CAC held its first community of inter- partners are using the most up-to-date Vessel tracking map: https:// est meeting on IUUF. This meeting data and technology to effectively globalfishingwatch.org/map/ brought together specialists from combat and reduce IUUF and its detri- Ending illegal fishing project:https:// diverse parts of the U.S. Government, mental impacts, not just in U.S. waters www.pewtrusts.org/en/projects/ including elements of the Department but as a supportive global partner. of Interior, Naval Research Labora- ending-illegal-fishing-project tory, and the State Department’s Office of Marine Conservation. They discussed tools, capabilities, and policy measures. Subsequently, inter- agency discussions based on the long- term implementation of the Maritime Security Fisheries and Enforcement or SAFE Act (P.L. 116-92) brought further attention to the policy aspects of the topic, enabling the CAC to focus its attention on geospatial tools and technologies. On July 21, 2020, the CAC hosted another meeting add- ing partners from Australia, Canada, U.S. Coast Guard patrols and New Zealand to get their perspec- When commercial fishing activities follow rules and regulations, over illegal fishing vessel. tives on this global problem. Future global fish stocks can be managed more sustainably. Photo Photo credit: Global Fishing credit: NOAA Watch

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Hurricanes continued from page 1 that decision makers, emergency responders, and communities can use to help them prepare for, cope with, and recover from a storm. The USGS forecasts coastal change; tracks storm surge, streamflow, and levels and cap- tures high-resolution ground elevation and topographic data; creates detailed maps, and measures coastal and inland flooding across entire regions. Before a storm’s expected landfall, coastal change experts forecast how a storm may reshape the coastline using a sophisticated coastal change hazard This map illustrates the USGS Coastal Change Hazard Portal's prediction of September 15, 2020, for Hurricane Sally's potential erosional effects on beaches from Louisiana through the western forecast model. Florida Panhandle. Map credit: USGS Each storm is unique, both in the indi- vidual storm characteristics and the Learn more about the USGS effort: landfall in the same area within days areas each affects. Here we share how https://www.usgs.gov/news/usgs-field- of each other. the USGS responded to the storms: crews-document-isaias-effects-along- About Hurricane Marco: https:// Isaias, Marco, Laura, Sally, Paulette, atlantic-coast and Teddy. www.usgs.gov/special-topic/ About Hurricane Isaias: https:// hurricane-marco Hurricane Isaias www.usgs.gov/special-topic/ Hurricane Laura In July, Hurricane Isaias, a destructive hurricane-isaias Category 1 storm, caused extensive On August 27, Hurricane Laura was Hurricane Marco damage across the Caribbean and the a Category 4 storm when it made East coast of the United States. As On August 20, Hurricane Marco was landfall in Louisiana, bringing heavy Isaias raced north up the Atlantic Sea- the first of two tropical cyclones to rains, wind, and storm surge. The board at speeds of more than 30 miles threaten the Gulf Coast of the United USGS provided real-time data on per hour, USGS crews (including at States within a three-day period, the water levels for river and streams, as least 87 hydrologists and hydrologic other being Hurricane Laura. Marco well as coastal change forecasts that technicians) from South Carolina to developed from a fast-moving tropical predicted more than half of Loui- New York fanned out across rain- wave west of the Windward Islands siana’s barrier islands and beaches swollen waterways to measure the and south of Jamaica. USGS scientists would be inundated by hurricane’s effects of the storm. assessed coastal impacts, predicting storm surge while the effects on sandy that 33 percent of shorelines in Texas, Mississippi, and the barrier islands Alabama would be less severe. Laura and beaches across made landfall only days after Marco, the region would see however, which created unique condi- some storm-caused tions and challenges for scientists. erosion, with effects “We are monitoring two storms that concentrated in will likely make landfall in roughly Louisiana. USGS the same area of coastline. Usually, scientists set storm- there is time between storms that tide sensors to mea- allows beaches to recover naturally, sure Marco’s storm but in this case there won’t be any surge and left them time for recovery, which makes the in place to record the coast more vulnerable and forecasting effects of Hurricane more unique, ” said research ocean- Laura, an unusual ographer Kara Doran, leader of the situation, having two USGS Coastal Change Hazards Storm Lori Lewis, USGS hydrologic technician, verifies the readings storms on track for of a USGS streamgage on Bayou Marcus in Pensacola, FL, on Team based in St. Petersburg, Florida. September 17. Photo credit: Rob Clendening, USGS See Hurricanes page 10

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Hurricanes continued from page 9 Hurricane Sally was active in the Gulf Access the Flood Event Viewer: of Mexico. https://stn.wim.usgs.gov/ “The tropical systems in the Atlantic, FEV/#2020TSMarco-HurricaneLaura though far from the coast, have the Watch the Storm Tide Sensor video: potential to cause beach and dune https://www.usgs.gov/news/track- erosion and even overwash along the potential-flooding-laura-usgs-flood- U.S Atlantic coast from North Caro- event-viewer lina north to Maine,” said Doran as her team prepared forecasts for coastal About Hurricane Laura: https:// change and related hazards. “The www.usgs.gov/special-topic/ swells from these storms are large, hurricane-laura long-period waves that elevate water By mid-September, four named storms levels at the coast, even though there and three tropical disturbances were isn’t any accompanying storm surge. on the move at the same time. In fact, it could be a beautiful sunny USGS Hydrologic Technician Mark Warzecha, Hurricane Sally day, but you wouldn’t want to go to installs a storm surge sensor in Port Lavaca, On September 16, Hurricane Sally the beach during these dangerous surf TX, in advance of Hurricane Marco’s landfall re-intensified in the Gulf of Mexico conditions. That’s why these con- along the Gulf of Mexico’s northern coast. and made landfall as a Category 2 tinuously running forecasts of coastal Photo credit: Alex Laffoon, USGS hurricane in Gulf Shores Alabama. water levels are important. They can management officials and coastal Again, USGS crews worked to track, alert people to coastal hazards in all planners by informing decisions forecast, and measure record flooding kinds of situations.” about which areas to evacuate, where and coastal change associated with the The USGS responded quickly to each and when to close coastal roads, and storm and provided water-level data to of these storms. Much of the initial where to position clean-up equipment emergency managers. real-time streamflow data are used by in advance of the storm. The enhanced About Hurricane Sally: https://www. other Federal agencies such as The emergency planning and response usgs.gov/special-topic/hurricane-sally National Weather Service, the U.S. saves lives and property. Hurricanes Paulette and Teddy Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), “The real-time information these and local emergency managers to In mid-September, these two storms streamgages provide is invaluable develop flood forecasts, make flood were out in the Atlantic brewing in providing timely, critical infor- control decisions, track flooding, and up large storm swells that affected mation to decision makers as they identify evacuation routes. These the U.S. Atlantic coastline from address public safety,” said Marie data and forecasts help emergency North Carolina to Maine while Peppler, USGS emergency manage- ment coordinator. “It’s also very useful for the public as they track local conditions, but everyone should always follow the evacuation and safety guidance of their local emergency officials.” In addition, as part of its mission, the USGS uses the scientific information gained by each storm to help scientists continue to improve the accuracy of forecasting for future storm surges, floods, USGS hydrologic technicians Fisseha Mengistu (at left), lowers a water sampler into Rock Creek in Washington, and coastal change to D.C., to collect samples to track how Isaias affected water quality and Logan Jeffries (at right) uses a hand-held help reduce risk and instrument called an Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter to measure streamflow August 4 on Tenmile Creek near improve the resilience of Clarksburg, MD. Photo credits: Erica Warner, USGS (left), Matt Baker, USGS (right) our nation.

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2017 Hurricane Recovery Funds Support Science— For example, the USGS created a new method to delineate coastal cliffs from Improved Resilience in Active 2020 Hurricane Season lidar data, to accurately map the coast- By Curt Storlazzi, Meaghan Faletti, Meg Palmsten, and Kara Doran (USGS) line of Puerto Rico and model future coastal hazards. USGS also partnered The record-breaking 2020 Atlantic with the University of Puerto Rico hurricane season is the first on record at Mayaguez to deploy a series of in which 9 tropical storms formed USGS instruments across the reefs before August and 13 before Sep- and shoreline at Rincon, Puerto Rico tember. Investments made in USGS to better understand flooding along coastal change science after the coral reef-fringed coasts (https://www. powerful 2017 hurricane season were At Fire Island, NY, estuarine, wetland, coastal, usgs.gov/centers/pcmsc/science/using- focused on improving hazards plan- and oceanic processes interact, affecting video-imagery-study-wave-dynamics- ning for future storms. Those scien- natural and human communities. The USGS has been conducting scientific investigations tres-palmas?qt-science_center_ tific advancements are paying off by at Fire Island for more than 20 years. Photo objects=0#qt-science_center_objects). improving forecasting tools, improv- credit: Kyle Kelso, USGS ing risk awareness, and creating more Scientists use these data to compare resilient communities. beach features, USGS estimates of and contrast different coastal flooding See related story, page 1. waves at the shoreline, and National models to accurately forecast coastal Here are a few examples: Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- storm-induced flooding. tion (NOAA) model-derived offshore Early results show that storm dam- • Updated Hurricane-Induced waves and water levels, Federal Water-Level Forecasting aged reefs off Florida and Puerto Rico agencies, such as NOAA, USGS, and in 2017 increased coastal flooding The USGS has updated mod- the NPS, as well as local officials and els forecasting hurricane-induced hazards to people and infrastructure, emergency management offices, use and that coral reef restoration could total water levels (https://coastal. the forecast as guidance to inform pre- er.usgs.gov/hurricanes/research/ reduce those hazards. FEMA and the and post-storm safety and property U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may twlviewer/) and coastal change damage decisions related to. hazards (https://marine.usgs.gov/ use these data to inform strategies coastalchangehazardsportal/) for the • Expanded Models for Coastal for restoring 2020 hurricane season southeastern United States. These Change Hazards in Puerto Rico impacts and to mitigate impacts in models provide real-time probabilities The USGS has expanded models for the future. of hurricane induced coastal flooding understanding storm-induced coastal Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/ natural-hazards/usgs-supplemental- and erosion that threaten U.S. coast- change hazards in Puerto Rico. Because of different coastal terrain on disaster-recovery-activities/2018- lines during this active season, as well supplemental-appropriations?qt- as for other extreme storms through- the island, including coral- and rock- science_support_page_related_ out the year. The models are based fronted coastlines, the USGS devel- con=0#qt-science_support_page_ on USGS lidar-derived dune and oped alternate modeling approaches. related_con Offshore Sediment for Shoreline Restoration By BOEM While the Florida Gulf coast endured Sediment Inventory will help further another hurricane season, the Bureau BOEM’s collection of data for the National Sand Inventory to foster of Ocean Energy Management With the agreement, BOEM and the coastal rebuilding. (BOEM) and the USACE Jacksonville USACE will be able to share data and District joined forces to be prepared “This Administration is better serving optimize engineering, economic, and when coastal counties needed sand to the Florida Gulf Coast through the environmental criteria by matching restore shorelines. support of the Southwest Florida Off- potential sediment sources with future An historic agreement signed this shore Sediment Inventory, resulting in restoration projects and postconstruc- summer cleared the way for offshore enhanced coastal resiliency. We look tion renourishment requirements. forward to working with USACE on work to begin on a much-needed sand Read the press release: https://www. this much-needed coastal restoration inventory offshore southwest Florida. boem.gov/boem-and-usace-unite- project,” said Acting BOEM Director The Southwest Florida Offshore support-florida-gulf-coast Walter Cruickshank.

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Living Shorelines— adult bivalve can filter up to 50 gal- Resilient Coasts the lons of water per day. “Providing resilience against storm Natural Way surge and erosion is crucial in the By Taylor Pool (USFWS) Gulf of Mexico,” said Ben Frater, chief of Restoration Planning and As late summer comes around, the sun Compliance, USFWS, Gulf Restora- is shining, the air is thick with heat tion Office. “Living shorelines are and humidity, and people begin to able to provide this protection and nervously watch weather forecasts for defense, while also providing habi- tropical storms and hurricanes. tat for the region’s fish and wildlife Meteorologists at NOAA updated populations.” the 2020 hurricane season forecast State and Federal agencies create liv- in August to extremely active. With ing shoreline projects from Texas to Hurricanes Hanna, Laura, Marco, and Florida using funding from the Deep- Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge staff plant Sally in the Gulf of Mexico, fortu- black needlerush along the refuge’s shoreline. water Horizon oil spill settlements, nately, there are ongoing collaborative Photo credit: Tami Heilemann, DOI such as the Gulf Environmental projects that are restoring coastlines Benefit Fund, RESTORE Act, and the to ensure they are resilient to surging Natural Resources Damage Assess- ones in Biloxi Marsh provide critical waters and storm erosion. ment (NRDA). In total, $224 million protections against storm damage to These coastlines, called living shore- has been dedicated to planning and our ecological resources, our state’s lines, are protected by vegetated buf- implementing projects focused on residents, as well as Louisiana’s fers and beach renourishment. Some shorelines, and the growing project energy infrastructure which is vital for are combined with harder structures list will continue to benefit the Gulf. the country’s economic security.” such as breakwaters to help minimize One example in the fringe marshes of State agencies and nongovernmental storm damage. All are used to stabilize Louisiana is the Biloxi Marsh Liv- organizations are executing many of estuarine coasts, bays, and tributaries. ing Shoreline. Louisiana’s Coastal the living shoreline projects. However, The benefits of living shorelines Protection and Restoration Author- Federal agencies are also providing include increased habitat for fish and ity (LA-CPRA) is completing the these natural defenses to Federal lands wildlife and safeguarded shores from expansive project within Eloi Bay. to ensure these resources remain intact wave impacts. Not only do the veg- The nearly $70 million project, which for future generations. etated buffers protect from water com- also involves the U.S. Environmental The USFWS, as a Trustee of the ing inland, but they can also help filter Protection Agency (EPA), will create NRDA, is currently completing a water flowing into the Gulf. Living living breakwater structures from bio- project on the Bon Secour National shorelines incorporating oyster reefs engineered oyster reefs to help reduce Wildlife Refuge that has provided also help filter coastal waters. One erosion from wind-driven wave valuable fish and wildlife habitat to an action. Overall, 11 miles ecologically sensitive area. The Little of shoreline will serve as a Lagoon Living Shoreline project, storm buffer for New Orleans although meager in its cost com- and provide vital habitat for pared to other projects at just under coastal fish and wildlife. $261,000, will substantially affect the Project planning was funded shoreline’s ability to defend against by the RESTORE Act, erosion from severe weather and will whereas the NRDA is fund- improve the water quality of the Little ing the implementation. Lagoon. Dune vegetation planting “Louisiana’s coast is a par- at the shoreline includes black need- ticularly sensitive area that lerush and smooth cordgrass plants. is continually changing,” Dune vegetation also provides habitat said Micaela Coner, project for threatened and endangered species manager, LA-CPRA. “The that live in coastal areas. The Alabama Fencepost hole diggers and shovels are used to plant creation of living shorelines beach mouse, for example, has a very black needlerush and cordgrass to create vegetated and breakwaters like the buffers. Photo credit: Erica Roberts, USFWS See Living page 13

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Living continued from page 12 $160 Million for Wetland Conservation small range that includes the barrier By DOI islands of Gulf Shores, AL, and the During May, American Wetlands and outdoor recreation opportunities Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Month, the Migratory Bird Conserva- for all Americans. Planting dune vegetation will expand tion Commission approved $160 mil- Wetlands provide many economic, its range and aid in the recovery of the lion in funding for various wetland ecological, and social benefits and are species. conservation projects that will benefit critical to supporting bird populations, “One of the reasons why we love this hundreds of bird species. many of which are declining. Many project is because it’s community- The commission, which is chaired by birds in the United States spend part driven,” said Jereme Phillips, refuge U.S. Secretary of the Interior David of their time in other countries, and manager for the Gulf Coast National L. Bernhardt, allocated $22.1 million NAWCA provides grants to Canada Wildlife Refuge Complex, which under the North American Wetlands and Mexico to ensure waterfowl and includes Bon Secour NWR. “The Conservation Act (NAWCA) to the other birds are protected throughout Little Lagoon Preservation Society USFWS and its partners to conserve their life cycles. The commission reached out to us and we thought the or restore more than 160,000 acres approved $40.5 million for 19 projects project was a fantastic idea. Since of wetland and associtated upland in those countries. then, we’ve been fortunate to work habitats for waterfowl, shorebirds, See Special Feature page 16 with our partners including Missis- and other birds through 22 proj- Learn More sippi State University, The Nature ects in 15 U.S. States. Partners will Funding press release: https:// Conservancy, and the University of match these grants with an additional www.fws.gov/news/ShowNews. South Alabama, with strong support $50 million. cfm?ref=secretary-bernhardt- from our colleagues with the Ala- announces-$160-million-in-funding- “Wetlands are special places with an bama Department of Conservation for-wetland-&_ID=36565 exceptional role to play in both the and Natural Resources, to make this NAWCA projects: https://www. economy and conservation of our project happen.” fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/grants/ magnificent wildlife,” said Service nawcaprojects200527.pdf Read the full article: https://www.fws. Director Aurelia Skipwith. The grants gov/southeast/articles/in-defense-for- About NAWCA: https://www.fws.gov/ our-shorelines-the-natural-way/ positively affect wetland conservation birds/grants/north-american-wetland- and improve access to public lands conservation-act.php What is a Living Shoreline? Living shorelines use plants or other natural elements to stabilize estuarine coasts, bays, and tributaries. Read more: https://www.habitatblueprint.noaa.gov/wp-content/ uploads/2016/04/living-shorelines-b.jpg Gulf Spill Restoration website: https://www.gulfspillrestoration.noaa. gov/ Little Lagoon Living Shoreline Project: https://www.fws.gov/southeast/ articles/deepwater-horizon-settlement-funds-new-living-shoreline-at- national-wildlife-refuge/ Biloxi Marsh Living Shoreline Project: https://www.gulfspillrestoration. noaa.gov/project?id=244

Wetlands of International Importance In 1971, an international convention was held in Ramsar, Iran, and participants signed a treaty entitled, “The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, Especially as Waterfowl Habitat.” The Ramsar Convention provides a framework for voluntary international cooperation for wetland conservation: • Recognizes wetlands’ importance to communities, cultures, governments, and businesses and encourages wetland conservation and wise use of wetlands. • Establishes criteria for designating rivers, marshes, coral reefs, and other areas as a “wetland of international importance.” Read the fact sheet: https://www.fws.gov/international/pdf/factsheet-ramsar.pdf

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Long Wharf continued from page 1

In 1994, the New Haven Land Trust established the 15-acre Long Wharf Nature Preserve (Preserve) to con- serve habitat for wildlife and to con- nect people with nature. The Preserve also restores important migratory bird habitat. Today, the city contin- ues to be a model of community-led habitat conservation. Organizations like Gather New Haven (formerly New Haven Land Trust and New Haven Farms) work together and with the USFWS Coastal Program and Urban Wildlife Conservation Program to conserve natural places for people and wildlife. One such place is Gather New Haven’s Long Wharf Nature Preserve. The preserve has trails that wind through tidal wetlands, sand dunes, and grasslands within the city of New Haven, CT. Photo credit: New Haven Land Trust To understand the importance of the Preserve and similar places, we talked Natural places like the to Sydney Johnson, a young local Preserve can be an resident who has lived in New Haven for most of her life—first in Wooster epicenter for community Square and later in the East Shore engagement—connecting neighborhood. Johnson said, “In the people with nature and city, things can be fast-paced and feel inspiring future generations confining. The preserve is a place to of environmental stewards. escape, slow down, and return into the moment.” Through organizations like To encourage her connection with the Gather New Haven and nature when she was younger, John- partners like the USFWS, son’s mother enrolled her in Gather access and enjoyment in New Haven’s Schooner Camp, a sail- our natural world can be ing and environmental camp on the As a youth, Johnson learned to sail at preserve. The camp taught her to sail accessible to everyone, no Schooner Camp, taking first and third place and fostered a sense of stewardship matter where they live. as a camper in sailing regattas. She returned to camp volunteering as a counselor to share this experience with the next generation. A Valuable Community Asset Photo credit: Sydney Johnson for the wildlife and natural habitats Children learn the value of coastal environments and the importance of good stewardship by getting out in the environment and experiencing it firsthand. near her home. Before attending the Watch a video (https://bit. camp, Johnson had never been on a ly/3ckW4op) that highlights the sailboat. Johnson said, “learning to value of the Long Wharf Nature sail was the coolest thing ever.” The Preserve to the local community. experience instilled in her, and many Collaborative partnerships other program participants, a sense of among the USFWS Coastal confidence and independence. Program, the Land Trust Alliance, the New Haven Land Trust, and Johnson later returned to the camp as Firefly Imageworks, Inc., made it a volunteer counselor to lead nature all possible. Photo credit: Firefly walks and activities for five- and Imageworks, Inc. See Long Wharf page 15

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Long Wharf continued from page 14 Sea-Level Rise Can Increase Groundwater Levels six-year-old campers. “It was the in California Coastal Communities best. Everything blows their minds,” Johnson said as she recalled the day By Patrick Barnard and Ann Tihansky (USGS) when her young campers saw their A new model that combines sea- from water-table rise along the entire first horseshoe crab. What the camp- level rise scenarios and information coast of California. Findings show ers learn can have a broader impact about associated groundwater level that low-lying coastal communities on the community. Sydney remembers responses shows that coastal water and critical infrastructure are most excited kids telling their parents about tables will rise as groundwater levels at risk of future rising water tables, horseshoe crabs and the parents help- are pushed up by landward intrusions including areas in San Francisco Bay, ing to upright overturned crabs on the of seawater caused by sea-level rise. Santa Barbara, Ventura, Port of Los shore. She was appreciative to see her The numerical model estimates the Angeles, Long Beach, Seal Beach, positive influence on the campers and depth of the present-day coastal water San Diego Bay, and San Francisco and their parents. table and the future response of these San Diego Airports. Learn More groundwater levels to a range of The research serves as a possible Gather New Haven: https:// sea-level rise scenarios for the entire model approach for building out an gathernewhaven.org/ California coast. Projected sea-level assessment across the entire United USFWS Urban Wildlife Conservation rise and storms could result in coastal States coastline in providing action- Program: https://www.fws.gov/urban/ flooding that threatens communi- able science needed by other Federal ties, infrastructure, the economy, and agencies such as the Federal Emer- USFWS Coastal Program (see side- natural resources. These scenarios gency Management Agency (FEMA), bar): https://www.fws.gov/coastal/ were used to assess the potential threat the EPA, and DoD who are focused on posed along the California coastline. mitigating natural hazards, reducing Schooner Camp Scientists used the USGS model risk associated with disasters, protect- MODFLOW in this study. A unique ing natural resources, and preparing Gather New Haven’s Schooner Camp aspect of this work is that the model for and reducing impacts of climate brings kids to the coastline to explore, covers a huge spatial domain (the and land-use change on coastal popu- learn, grow, get their feet wet, and— lations and infrastructure. above all else—have fun! Camp is for State of California). The extremely youth ages 6–14, and leadership and high resolution allows the model to Read the paper: https://doi. youth development opportunities capture the effects of topography and org/10.1038/s41558-020-0874-1 are for teens. Shore exploration and drainage networks sailing programs engage campers on groundwater in science-based learning and levels. This can environmental education through help pinpoint hands-on activities, adventures, crafts, areas where pond- and games! ing at land surface Watch the video to learn more: https:// may occur, or bit.ly/32Ts2oD where the water table intersects shallow, subsur- face infrastructure, such as base- ments, parking garages, buried Examples of CoSMoS-GW mapping products. At left, modeled current groundwater tables with red depicting sites of emergent groundwater. utilities, road At right, groundwater tables modeled in the same area with 6 feet of beds, and other sea-level rise. Blue indicates coastal-driven flooding and inundation. infrastructure. Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/pcmsc/science/cosmos- groundwater?qt-science_center_objects=0#qt-science_center_objects The work is the Learn more about saltwater intrusion in California: https://www.usgs. first to quantify gov/mission-areas/water-resources/science/saltwater-intrusion?qt- the potential science_center_objects=0#qt-science_center_objects coastal flooding https://ca.water.usgs.gov/sustainable-groundwater-management/ that could result seawater-intrusion-california.html Image credit: Juliette Finzi-Hart, Patrick Barnard, and Kevin Befus, USGS

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The Complex Task of Managing Migratory Shorebird Species An Overview of the USFWS Migratory Bird Program By Brad Andres (USFWS)

Shorebird populations are declin- manage flyways and habitats Least tern (Sterna antillarum) in flight. Image ing. In fact, more than 50 percent of these birds rely on for their extensive credit Steve Hillebrand, USFWS the shorebird populations in North voyages. Other supporting legislative America are declining. resources include the Ramsar Conven- USFWS Migratory Bird habitat pro- Analyses have indicated the most tion on Wetlands (see page 13), the grams include the NAWCA, the Neo- substantial declines occurred for long- Agreement on the Conservation of tropical Migratory Bird Conservation distance migrants. Articles on pages Albatrosses and Petrels (in the works), Act, Urban Conservation Treaty for 16–23 are examples of DOI efforts and the Arctic Council, which has Migratory Birds, and the Migratory to better understand and address this conservation of Arctic flora and fauna Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp topic. as part of its mission. The USFWS (Duck Stamp). Learn More In 2019, the “State of the Birds” also participates in meetings with the report showed that bird populations Convention on Migratory Species as a NAWCA: https://www.fws.gov/ have lost 3 billion birds. The popula- nonvoting observer. birdhabitat/grants/NAWCA tion of all shorebird species declined Many shorebird species use key ocean NMBCA: https://www.fws.gov/ by 37 percent. For 120 seabird species and coastal areas as part of their birdhabitat/grants/NMBCA regularly occurring in U.S. waters, annual migratory life cycles; travel- About flyways: https://www. 53 percent are of high conservation ing extensively across hemispheres, flyways.us concern or listed under the ESA. For continents, international borders, and the 76 shorebird populations occur- habitats. For example, the Limosa lap- The USFWS Migratory Bird Program ring regularly in United States, the ponica (bar-tailed godwit) and Calid- works with partners to protect, restore, manage, and conserve numbers are even higher—more than ris canutus (red knot) travel more than bird populations and their habitats 55 percent are of high conservation 17,000 miles each year. These dis- through monitoring, assessment, concern or listed under the ESA. tances across international boundaries partnerships (for example, Partners Learn more: http://www. complicate management challenges. in Flight and the North American stateofthebirds.org As part of the USFWS Migratory Bird Waterfowl Management Plan) and State of the Birds 2019: https:// Program, projects span regional areas grants for the benefit of future sotb2019.wpengine.com/ through partnerships that help bridge generations by: steep-declines/ with international communities to • Ensuring long-term ecological focus on conserving shorebirds. The USFWS has a responsibility to sustainability of all migratory bird the Nation for managing migratory Some intergovernmental and inter- populations, birds. The authority is designated agency efforts such as the East • Protecting, enhancing, and restor- primarily through the Migratory Bird Asian-Australian Flyway Partnership ing migratory bird habitats, Treaty Act, where the United States (EAAFP) are dedicated to supporting • Increasing socioeconomic ben- has treaties with Canada, Mexico, multinational strategies for conserving efits derived from birds and their Japan, and Russia shorebirds through flyway protections habitats, designed and partnerships. In the United States, • Improving hunting and bird watch- to help the U.S. Shorebird Conservation Part- ing and other outdoor bird-related nership works cooperatively with Fed- experiences, and eral and State agencies, nongovern- • Increasing awareness of the value mental organizations, migratory bird of migratory birds and their habitats joint ventures, and the private sector for their aesthetic, ecological, recre- to increase the awareness of shore- ational, and economic significance. birds and further their conservation. Learn more: https://www.fws.gov/ Arctic tern (Sterna paradisaea) on Petit Manan Island, Maine birds/about-us.php Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Me. The arctic tern Watch the video: https://www.youtube. migrates from the North to the South Pole and back again every year, the longest migration of any bird. Photo credit: Kirk Rogers com/watch?v=NkI_Bd6SKbY

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Conserving Long-Distance Migrant Shorebirds at the Flyway Scale The Midcontinent Shorebird Conservation Initiative By Brad Andres (USFWS) underway to fill the interior gap in Shorebirds—stilts/avocets, plovers, the Americas, including the Gulf of oystercatchers, and sandpipers—are Mexico shoreline. some of the most mobile animals on More than 16.5 million shorebirds Earth. Often traveling along routes use interior parts of the United States, (known as flyways) that cover global Canada, and the western Gulf of distances between northern and south- Mexico as important stopover, winter- ern hemispheres, they rely on critical ing, and breeding areas during spring grasslands, wetlands, and beaches to migration. Sixty-four percent of shore- breed, feed, and rest along the way. birds using the North American mid- The habitats favored by shorebirds continent area travel to interior parts across their annual migratory cycles of South America to spend the boreal have been altered dramatically over winter. Interior habitats in South the last century. America support numerous endemic Shorebirds possess a unique set of species that are of high conservation life-history traits (for example, small concern. North and South American A map showing the Midcontinent Americas Flyway. Image credit: Brad Andres, USFWS clutch size) that make them espe- shorebirds share high elevation wet- cially vulnerable to environmental lands and grasslands with charismatic shorebird populations) requires more and anthropogenic perturbations. The species like flamingos, guanacos, and than natural-resource management combination of threatened habitats, pumas. for these species. An important part vulnerable life history, and wide- The Midcontinent Shorebird Con- is conveying the value of invest- ranging migrations create substantial servation Initiative will include ing in conservation and highlighting challenges for conserving them. three components: the positive outcomes that benefit An effective strategy for sustaining human communities. and recovering long-distance migrant • Develop a hemispheric strategic conservation framework, Large-scale conservation solutions shorebirds requires integrating conser- will require large-scale investments vation measures across the full suite • Establish hemispheric and regional that help align shorebird conserva- of geographic, ecological, and cultural committees to oversee framework tion goals with those of large-scale development and implementation, landscapes. To answer this challenge, social and environmental programs. and flyway-scale shorebird initiatives Such solutions require collaborative have been launched on the Atlantic • Identify potential and existing efforts among national governments, (https://atlanticflywayshorebirds. revenue streams to facilitate imple- multilateral development banks, org/) and Pacific https://( mentation. financial institutions, and the private pacificflywayshorebirds.org/) coasts The proposed strategic framework sector. Engaging novel partners and of the Americas. An effort is currently will place local action in a flyway demonstrating the value of these context and facilitate collaboration at programs is critical to implementing the necessary scales. Developing the them successfully. framework will also enhance partner See related story, page 19. and stakeholder abilities to collabo- rate and integrate their current efforts The Midcontinent Shorebird Conser- throughout the Midcontinent Ameri- vation Initiative has technical advi- cas Flyway. These actions contribute sors, coordinators, and steering com- to fulfilling the goal of sustaining mittees that are busy planning virtual shorebird populations for present and workshops to develop the strategy and future generations. framework during fall 2020 and early winter 2021. The goal is to have the The stilt sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) nests Integrating human benefits with framework completed by the end of in the Arctic tundra grasses and migrates conservation objectives is a chal- 2021 so we can begin implementing it. through the Great Plains to South America, lenging task. Meeting biological sometimes wintering as far north as Florida objectives (for example, increased For additional information, please and Texas. Photo credit: Lisa Hupp, USFWS contact Brad Andres at brad_andres@ fws.gov 17 NEWSWAVE • Fall 2020

A Century of Advancing Avian Conservation The USGS Bird Banding Program By Jessica Fitzpatrick, Antonio Celis-Murillo, and Ann Tihansky (USGS) Birds contribute more than beauty to birds. Currently, the lab the environment; they connect society issues permits for to natural resources and many related banding in the United daily, seasonal, and global cycles. States, distributes Many plants depend on bird species aluminum bands— to pollinate them, and many fruit- and about 1 million per grain-eating birds help spread plants’ year—to participating seeds, enhance agricultural produc- scientists in the United tion, and provide valuable control States and Canada, of a range of pests from mosquitos and serves as a central to rodents. repository for band- Birds are also good indicators of ing records in both Blue-winged teal (Spatula discors) at Green Cay Wetlands, FL. Photo credit: Bill Hubick environmental health because they are countries. sensitive to habitat change. Changes The USGS Bird Banding acting chief of the USGS Bird Band- in bird populations can indicate envi- ing Laboratory. “The archived infor- Laboratory staffers manage ronmental stressors, such as extreme mation helps experts make important weather or human development, more than 77 million archived management and conservation deci- which could affect other parts of the banding records and more sions, which is especially important ecosystem. For these and many other than 5 million bird encounter for the protection and recovery of reasons, avian conservation science reports. An average of nearly endangered and threatened birds.” is needed. 1.2 million banding records and “In the 100 years since the Bird This year marks the 100th anniversary 100,000 encounter reports are Banding Laboratory was established, of a program dedicated to that effort: submitted each year. scientists have acquired an immense the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. Bird Banding Protects Birds amount of data on the changing status The lab was established in 1920 to and trends in bird populations, and Scientists can keep track of individual study and protect North American they have documented movement pat- birds by placing bands on a bird’s terns across the North America,” said legs. Each set of bands has a unique Thomas O’Connell, center director for combination of colors and numbers. the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Highly trained researchers record the Center and Leetown Science Center. location and date, as well as the bird’s “Having long-term records is essen- species, gender, estimated age, and tial to seeing changes over time and other features, and sends that informa- learning about the state of the environ- tion to the lab every time they band ment. The more we know about birds a bird. The USGS works with The the better equipped land- and resource North American Banding Council, managers are to make the best deci- which develops banding materials and sions to protect them.” addresses safety regulations. What Scientists Learn by Banding People who see or catch a banded bird report that information back to Through banding research, scientists the lab, which keeps records of all can learn a bird’s routine, such as reported encounters. where they spend most of the day, where they migrate, what they eat, “Scientists can tap this powerful and how much habitat they need to archive of bird sighting information feed and reproduce. This informa- and combine it with other research tion can help identify priority areas tools to track birds’ behavior, migra- for conservation. Wisdom, Laysan albatross (Phoebastria tion, lifespans, populations, diseases immutabilis), with one of her chicks named and levels of environmental contami- Kūkini. Photo credit: USFWS nants,” said Antonio Celis-Murillo, See Banding page 19

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Banding continued from page 18 Scientists can help determine disease 40 years, but they now know these Banding data can reveal other trends (such as Lyme disease and avian seabirds can live much longer and nest in life span and population. If the age influenza) prevalence by sampling successfully for many years of birds caught at a certain location wild birds. Bird migration routes can • Tracking avian influenza in Blue- changes, life expectancy may be get- identify which human and animal Winged Teal (Spatula discors) ting shorter or longer. The number of communities are at risk of exposure birds captured overall may indicate too. In toxicology research, banding • Conservation and recovery of wild whether populations are increasing or data can also show birds’ potential Flamingo populations (Phoenicop- terus ruber) decreasing. Data such as weight and exposure to contaminants or other wingspan can show trends in overall environmental threats. In 1950, there were about 5,000 wild flamingos in North America. Today, health. Such insight can cue scientists In addition, the USFWS and other there are more than 70,000, and they to look for changes to birds’ food partners analyze banding information are living longer, indicating that con- sources, predators, competitors, habi- from game bird species each year to servation efforts are working. tats, or other factors that affect their help set hunting regulations. These survival and reproduction. regulations ensure healthy popula- Citizens have also helped compile the tions while allowing sustainable immense amount of data that makes hunting opportunities. the lab’s records so valuable. Anyone who sees a banded bird can be a citi- Examples of significant findings in the zen scientist by reporting the sighting. last 100 years: Report a banded bird: http://www. • Impacts of the pesticide DDT reportband.gov • Oldest known banded bird Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/ USGS data helped discover the old- centers/pwrc/science/bird-banding- est known banded bird in the wild. laboratory?qt-science_center_ Wisdom, a female Laysan albatross objects=0#qt-science_center_objects (Phoebastria immutabilis), is at least Read the full story: https://www.usgs. 69 years old and nests on Midway gov/news/usgs-celebrates-100-years- Atoll NWR, a remote Pacific Island. bird-banding-lab#:~:text=This%20 American flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) on Scientists used to think the life span year%20marks%20the%20 the north shore of Puerto Rico. Photo credit: of the Laysan albatross was 12 to 100,help%20protect%20North%20 Bill Hubick American%20birds A Business Plan That Works for American Oystercatcher Recovery By Bridget Macdonald (USFWS)

“Fifteen years ago, things just weren’t do make it to adulthood, they tend to Oystercatcher Working Group, the adding up for the American oyster- survive and have a lot of chances to USFWS devised a different kind of catcher; population numbers were reproduce.” Because small numbers of plan: a business plan. Assuming the down,” said Shiloh Schulte, American young oystercatchers make it to repro- role of the conservation entrepreneur, oystercatcher recovery coordinator for ductive age, scientists were alarmed the USFWS led the working group in the Manomet Center for Conservation when data showed a species-wide fleshing out the plan, outlining what Sciences. “The metrics showed repro- decline in reproductive success in the needed to happen where to increase duction seemed to be declining: very early 2000s. The drop in reproductive the oystercatcher population and at few chicks were being produced.” success was changing the species’ what price, and pitched it to an inter- A drop in reproductive success might population equation. There was an ested investor—the National Fish and cause concern for any species, but it increasingly smaller number of young Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). was particularly alarming for a bird oystercatchers, facing the same long “Working with USFWS and the whose offspring usually don’t reach odds of survival. Foundation, we came up with a goal maturity. The species has evolved to By linking actions to outcomes and of a 30-percent increase in the popula- compensate for this loss of eggs and expenses, they developed a whole tion over ten years, as well as a set of juveniles, explained Caleb Spiegel, new way of implementing conserva- specific conservation actions,” Schulte a biologist with the USFWS. “It is a tion. Working closely with shore- said. “Basically, what we would like long-lived shorebird, and when they bird experts from the American See Oystercatcher page 20

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Oystercatcher continued from page 19 20th Anniversary Successes of the Neotropical to do if we had the resources, and what kind of scale we would like to Migratory Bird Conservation Act! work at.” USFWS Mexico, Central America, the Carib- bean, or South America by addressing In the context of conservation, this Recognizing that neotropical migrants—birds that breed in the the factors limiting populations of was a novel approach. “They were declining migratory bird species. The linking concrete management objec- United States and Canada but spend the winter farther south—need protec- projects have strong local community tives to actual funding levels,” Spiegel involvement; and, because many of said. “That’s challenging because the tion across their lifecycles, Congress passed the Neotropical Migratory the conservation needs exist south of environment is inherently unpredict- the U.S. border, at least 75 percent of able, but it’s what funders want to see Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) in July 2000. The goals of the NMBCA the funding supports projects out- when they are looking for a return side the United States. The NMBCA on investment.” include perpetuating healthy bird populations, providing financial requires a partner-to-grant dollar NFWF agreed to put up $5 million resources for bird conservation, and match of 3 to 1. Outside of the United over 10 years. With a roughly 1 to 1 fostering international cooperation. States and Canada, in-kind contribu- match, that has amounted to about Learn more: https://www.fws.gov/ tions can meet that matching contribu- $1 million per year toward oyster- birds/grants/neotropical-migratory- tion requirement. catcher conservation since 2009. bird-conservation-act.php One of the values of the program It worked. After 20 years, the impact has been is that it can fund a broad array of “Shorebirds are already living on the incredible. Since the first projects efforts to conserve neotropical migra- edge,” Spiegel said. “We need an were funded in 2002, NMBCA has tory birds and the habitats they need, international partnership to be work- provided 628 grants throughout the including protecting, restoring, and ing together throughout the life cycle Western Hemisphere, totaling nearly managing habitat; conducting law of these species based on common $75 million and leveraging over enforcement activities; providing goals and metrics, and the oyster- $287 million in matching contribu- community outreach and educa- catcher working group has been a tions. Projects benefit most of the tion; and supporting bird population model for how to do that well.” 386 bird species that breed in the con- research and monitoring. Learn more: https://www.arcgis.com/ tinental United States or Canada and Learn more: https://www.fws.gov/ apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=87 usually spend the northern winter in birds/news/200721NMBCA20.php 690c02be3c4c0094bc59cfbfa5ed28 Read more about American oyster- catcher recovery: https://medium.com/ usfishandwildlifeservicenortheast/ in-american-oystercatcher-recovery- partners-mean-business-19aa50a12ae

This graph shows projected population-growth trajectories given different annual funding scenarios, including no funding, which would have led to a population decline. In line with the projections, the American oystercatcher population has grown American oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) and chick stand out in the bird world 23 percent in 10 years with yearly investments of for their striking appearance and the specialized foraging technique they must teach to about $1 million. Image credit: USFWS their young. Photo credit: USFWS

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Golden Anniversary of Counting Birds on Tomales Bay, CA NPS Reyes count welcomes participants of The 50th Christmas Bird Count (CBC) Tomales Bay is a 12-mile long, all ages and skill levels. at Point Reyes took place in Decem- narrow estuary that separates "Counting birds can be very excit- ber 2019. Several NPS staff volun- the Point Reyes peninsula from ing" said volunteer and NPS alumnus teered at sites throughout Point Reyes mainland California. This globally Sarah Allen described the scene on National Seashore and on Tomales significant waterbody was one of the boats during the December Bay, where volunteers conducted the designated a Ramsar Wetland of 2019 count: International Importance in 2002, surveys aboard three separate boats. The CBC contributes numbers for recognizing this important haven Sponsored by the Marin Audubon scientists and wildlife managers to and habitat for migrating species Society and Point Blue Conservation understand waterfowl population and waterbirds. An estimated Science, the Tomales Bay CBC is trends and habitat use. The good news 35,000 birds spend their winters one of the longest continuous stud- is that many species’ populations have there, often migrating from distant ies of waterbirds. The first count in trended up at Tomales Bay over the destinations in the northern 1957 was limited to the narrow, long past 50 years. estuary but became an annual event latitudes. Much of the data for long- term bird population trends are due Learn more about the history of the starting in 1970, and the count circle Point Reyes CBC from this account expanded to combine other habitat to local citizens who participate in annual CBCs. by naturalist David Wimpfheimer: areas. Today, 27 territories within the https://www.audubon.org/sites/default/ Point Reyes Count circle are centered files/documents/AB_108_reyes.pdf around Tomales Bay. In terms of total species observed, number of rarities, and number of committed partici- Read more: https://www.nps.gov/ articles/50-years-of-counting-birds- Christmas Bird Counts pants, the count ranks near the top of all North American CBCs. The Point on-tomales-bay.htm The National Audubon Society administers the CBCs, and 2019 Bird Watchers Positively Affect the Economy was the 120th CBC season, the first was held in 1900. The CBCs are the More than 45 million people watch birds near and away from home. Combined longest-running citizen science with other wildlife watchers, they contribute a total of nearly $80 billion to the program in the world. With over U.S. economy, according to the 2016 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and 2,300 individual count circles, these Wildlife-Associated Recreation produced by the USFWS. For example, a September volunteers’ bird counts provide 2017 presentation at the American Birding Expo found that, among other events, valuable information about the long- the Space Coast Birding Festival generated nearly $1.3 million over 5 days. term status of bird populations across North America and elsewhere. Each Bird watchers spent nearly $41 billion annually on trips and equipment, according count area covers a 15-mile diameter to an addendum to an earlier national survey in 2011. The survey also found that circle in which teams of volunteers, local community economies benefit from the $14.9 billion that bird watchers from novice to expert, count every spend on food, lodging, and transportation and that 666,000 jobs were created bird they encounter during the entire in 2011 as a result of bird watching expenditures. When combined, outdoor day. recreation sales (gear and trips) for hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching— Learn more: https://www.audubon. including bird watching—totaled $325 billion per year according to a 2011 study org/conservation/science/ commissioned by the NFWF. christmas-bird-count Learn More: National survey addendum: https://digitalmedia.fws.gov/ digital/collection/document/ id/1874 Bird watching tools: https:// www.fws.gov/birds/bird- enthusiasts/bird-watching/ Birdwatchers contribute valuable information for wildlife bird-watching-tools.php managers. Photo credit: USFWS Economic impact information: https://www.fws.gov/birds/bird-enthusiasts/bird- watching/valuing-birds.php

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Loons Losing Lakes Looking at Potential Impacts from Loss of Arctic Breeding Habitat By Deanna Ochs (NPS) warmest since records began in the 1940s, following a series of record In the summer of 2018, biologists warm years that began in 2014. with the NPS Artic Inventory and Monitoring Network noticed a dis- It is not uncommon for lakes in Ber- turbing trend while conducting aerial ing Land Bridge National Preserve loon surveys in Bering Land Bridge to dry up, as they are surrounded by National Preserve. Many large, coastal permafrost, and periodic drainage is lakes were quickly draining away. The a natural part of their ecology. How- shallow lakes pockmarking this land- ever, the pace of drainage has picked scape are important breeding habitat up. Since about 2000, the area has A Yellow-billed Loon sitting on a nest. Photo used by three loon species, including been losing about 3-square miles of credit: Stacia Backensto, NPS the rare Yellow-billed Loon (Gavia water per decade. In 2018, the rate of adamsii). The abundant food sources, disappearance increased dramatically, Alaska-Fairbanks are working to ample vegetation, broad expanse, and with 3 square miles draining in one identify the characteristics of fresh- ready access to the marine environ- summer. It is widely believed that the water lakes in Bering Land Bridge to ment have brought these migratory change is due to thawing permafrost develop loon habitat-selection mod- birds back to the same lakes to breed as the climate warms. Such changes els. They are using environmental for centuries. The habitat changes may affect loons and other species in deoxyribonucleic acid (eDNA) to help resulted in a loss of fish, invertebrates, this unique ecosystem. assess the presence of loon species and vegetation that provide cover and To better understand the impact of and prey fish that are using these nourishment to the birds while nesting these changes, several studies have lakes while other scientists are using and chick-rearing. Bering Land Bridge been initiated. The NPS is collaborat- genetics to look at variation within National Preserve is one of a handful ing with the USFWS to document local populations of Alaska’s five loon of regions throughout the Circum- long-term loon population trends in species (Gavia sp.) that occur in Ber- arctic that contain lakes suitable for Bering Land Bridge and Cape Kru- ing Land Bridge: Pacific G.( pacifica), Yellow-billed Loons. senstern National Park lands. While Red-throated (G. stellata), Yellow- According to long-term climate moni- focusing on the Yellow-billed Loon, billed (G. adamsii), Arctic (G. arc- toring at Kotzebue, AK, the period they are also collecting data on Pacific tica), and Common (G. immer), encompassing the winter of 2017–18 and Red-throated loons (Gavia paci- Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/ through the summer of 2018 was the fica and G. stellata, respectively). articles/loons-without-lakes.htm In other studies, scientists at NPS, USGS, and the University of Youth Bring a Fresh Perspective to Wildlife Conservation The NPS Arctic Inventory and Monitoring Network staff reached out to Alaska’s youth. Through partners and funding from Alaska Geographic and the Murie Science and Learning Center, five students joined biologists in the field to observe loons in their natural habitat. The students created videos from this first-hand A slider composite image of a large lake in Satellite image of northeastern Bering Land experience that they shared within Bering Land Bridge National Preserve. At left, Bridge National Preserve. Lakes that drained in June 2009. Photo credit: Melanie Flamme, in 2018 are marked with a yellow triangle and their communities and other youth. NPS. At right, in September 2018 after it labeled with the water area loss in percent Watch the videos on Alaska NPS rapidly drained sometime between June of the original lake area and water loss in YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ and early September. Photo credit: Sarah hectares (about 2.5 acres). Image credit: watch?v=zFGpfu2lauo Swanson, NPS David Swanson, NPS

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Food Web Changes Affect Mercury Levels in Fish Norway continued from page 1 By Dave Krabbenhoft (USGS) to the United States Kåre R. Aas signed a Memorandum of Understand- Fish consumption advisories for ing (MOU) during a ceremony in elevated concentrations of mercury Washington, D.C. GeoHealth newsletter logo. Read more: in consumable fish are in place for all “We appreciate this opportunity to five Great Lakes. Although actions https://www.usgs.gov/geohealth-usgs?qt- newsletter_group=0#qt-newsletter_group highlight our strong relationship with aimed to reduce mercury releases in Photo credit: USGS Norway and our continuing invest- the Great Lakes Region include the ment in safe and responsible offshore Clean Water Act, Mercury Export energy development,” said Mac- Ban Act, sulfur and nitrous oxide web shift dramatically changed carbon Gregor. She added that this admin- controls, Mercury and Air Toxics and nutrient dynamics in Lake Michi- istration, “is committed to ensuring Standards Rule, and changes in energy gan and resulted in dietary changes our Nation is in a position of strength production from coal to natural gas, of lake trout that presumably lead to when it comes to domestic energy have reduced mercury in air emis- consumption of prey items higher in production, to provide jobs, power sions, expected comparable decreases mercury content, thereby dampen- our economy, and provide afford- of mercury in fish tissue have not ing the expected decline in mercury able energy for American families been observed. concentrations in fish.These results and businesses,” reveal why trends in fish mercury con- USGS scientists studied methylmer- Activities outlined in the MOU frame- centrations may not mirror declining cury bioaccumulation in lake trout, a work include the exchange of scien- predator fish of Lake Michigan, look- regional and national mercury emis- tific and technical information and ing at the combined effects of reduced sions in the United States, and further cooperation regarding research and environmental mercury source loading imply that mercury concentrations in development technologies. The United along with food web changes associ- fish cannot be predicted by emission States and Norway will remain in ated with establishment of invasive inventories alone. regular contact and foster discussion species populations. Like this story? Read more envi- of experiences, best practices, policy, and regulatory initiatives relevant to Scientists looked at mercury, carbon, ronmental health research from the the development of offshore resources. and nitrogen in lake trout tissues USGS. The GeoHealth USGS news- archived from 1975 to 2015 by the letter provides information on new “The MOU signed today will further EPA and mercury isotopes in dated USGS science activities pertinent to strengthen the longstanding energy sediment cores from Lake Michigan. safeguarding the health of fish, wild- partnership between our two coun- Scientists were able to determine that life, domesticated animals, livestock, tries. I’m convinced that sharing of fish tissue concentrations were related and people from environmental expo- best practices and experience will be to temporal changes in mercury sures to contaminants and pathogens. mutually beneficial and contribute to sources and to changes in food web You can also subscribe: https://www. sustainable resource management,” effects owing to increased popula- usgs.gov/newsletter/geohealth-usgs- said State Secretary in the Norwegian tions of invasive species. This food newsletter-august-2020 Ministry of Petroleum and Energy Tony Christian Tiller. The United States and Norway are two of the world’s largest offshore oil What is a Joint Venture? and gas producers and have decades The USFWS works with many partners. Bird Habitat Joint Ventures are collaborative of experience to draw upon in expand- partnerships that enhance work in the United States, Canada, and Mexico to ing discussions on oil and gas best conserve habitat for the benefit of birds, other wildlife, and people. We bring practices. Both countries are interested strategic thought to bird conservation, including for species like the Yellow-billed in discussing strategies for identify- loon. Read more: https://pacificbirds.org/2019/04/yellow-billed-loons-on-the-move/ ing and inventorying new supplies of marine mineral resources of com- Learn More mercial or economic interest. Discuss- Joint Venture directory: https://www.fws.gov/birds/management/bird-conservation- ing offshore wind is also a priority, partnership-and-initiatives/migratory-bird-joint-ventures/joint-venture-directory.php particularly as it pertains to floating wind technology. Joint Venture network: https://pacificbirds.org/about-pacific-birds/ Learn more: https://www.doi.gov/ what-are-joint-ventures/ pressreleases/interior-and-norway- Mirgratory Bird Joint Ventures website: https://mbjv.org/ strengthen-offshore-energy-and- mineral-resource-knowledge-and

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Rapid Post-Hurricane Coastal Change Data Assists NPS and Partners By Sara Ernst (USGS) Hurricane Isaias unleashed destructive What Are DEMs (Digital winds, rainfall, and tornados when it made landfall in North Carolina Elevation Models)? on August 3, 2020, affecting lives, USGS DEMs are arrays of regularly spaced homes, infrastructure, and coastal elevation values referenced horizontally features. Quantifying this coastal either to a map projection or other change is essential for communities to geographic coordinate system. These better plan for sea-level rise, chang- products are critical for modeling and ing storm patterns, and other coastal analyzing elevation changes. change hazards. The grid cells are spaced at regular The USGS uses remote-sensing tech- intervals along south-to-north profiles nologies, such as aerial photography, that are ordered from west to east. The satellite imagery, and lidar (laser- USGS acquires bare-earth elevation based surveying), to measure coastal source data through the USGS 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) and resamples change along U.S. shorelines. Within the data to several National Map DEM a few days after Hurricane Isaias, products for the United States and the USGS Remote Sensing Coastal territories. DEMs are logically seamless Change (RSCC) project rapidly pro- terrain surfaces in their respective areas cessed emergency response imagery of coverage and are produced from the DEMs for elevation at North Core Banks in from NOAA, using the new digital highest quality elevation data held by the Cape Lookout National Seashore before elevation models (DEMs) to compare USGS. Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/ (November 12, 2019) and after (August with previous 2020 data from Novem- faqs/what-are-digital-elevation-models- 4, 2020) Hurricane Isaias. The bottom dems?qt-news_science_products=0#qt- image shows the elevation-difference ber 2019 at the North Core Banks map between the two DEMs (red=loss; news_science_products in Cape Lookout National Seashore. green=gain). Image credit: Jin-Si Over, USGS Using these models, RSCC produced difference maps to analyze storm- “Our ground observations support the The change analysis performed by the induced coastal change. image assessment. The production USGS RSCC team determined that The results gave the NPS criti- of the image assessment was quicker Hurricane Isaias showed some beach cal information before field-based than our ability to get out there and recovery with sand overwash depos- teams were deployed, helping to look at it on the ground. It helped us ited in channels previously eroded by decide how and where to approach focus on impacted areas. And, it can Hurricane Dorian and also at some response activities. help dictate how and where we access beaches on North Core Banks. the island. The USGS is dedicated to providing This is great prompt, actionable data and analy- work,” said sis to meet stakeholder needs such Jeff West, as the NPS and NOAA. Building the super- and maintaining productive partner- intendent at ships are key in effectively serving Cape Look- U.S. coastal communities. out National Seashore. Learn more about related research and efforts: https://www.usgs.gov/ natural-hazards/coastal-marine- A detail of one of the hazards-and-resources/science/ washover deposits coastal-change-hazards?qt-science_ accumulating in a gully center_objects=0#qt-science_center_ formed by Hurricane Dorian objects and a cross-section showing Learn about RSCC: https://www.usgs. accumulation on the beach gov/centers/pcmsc/science/remote- and at the distal end of the sensing-coastal-change?qt-science_ washover deposit. Image center_objects=0#qt-science_center_ credit: Jin-Si Over, USGS objects

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Potential Landslides and Tsunami Hazards in Glacier Bay, Alaska By Lisa Wald, Jeffrey Coe, Robert Schmitt, and Erin Bessette-Kirton (USGS) Glacier Bay National Park and Pre- Bathymetry data used during the serve (GBNPP) is a popular destina- research revealed a previously hid- tion for cruise ships and passenger den landslide at the junction of Johns boats. A typical tour of the Bay tra- Hopkins and Tarr inlets that appears to verses the entire length of the Bay to have occurred sometime after 1892. It the glacier calving viewpoints in the originated above land, but most of the Johns Hopkins and Tarr Inlets. How- deposit is underwater. It is the largest ever, in 2018 the NPS recognized that known landslide within GBNPP. the combination of recent deglacia- Based on this initial investigation, Margerie Glacier is an icy highlight of Glacier tion, relatively frequent earthquakes, USGS scientists recommended more Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska and steep rocky slopes, and narrow inlets fieldwork to determine geologic con- a primary destination for visitors on sailboats, create conditions in Glacier Bay ditions that control landslide occur- kayaks, tourboats and cruise ships. The that can potentially generate large rence and size, systematic monitoring glacier’s ice face towers 250 feet high above the waterline, with another 100 feet below tsunami waves. These conditions of steep slopes to detect slow move- could pose threats to ships and boats the water’s surface. Photo by Sara L. Tolwin ments or deformations that could (www.sharetheexperience.org) at Glacier Bay nearby as well as possible risks to possibly provide warning of land- National Park and Preserve GBNPP visitors, slide events, and tsunami modeling In recent years, there has been a spate to determine the boat size that could of large landslides in GBNPP that cor- be threatened by landslide-generated and-implications-tsunami-hazards?qt- responded to record-breaking warm waves. There is clearly more work to science_center_objects=0#qt-science_ temperatures in Alaska. USGS land- be done to understand the risk posed center_objects slide scientists published a 2019 report by these natural hazards. Read more: https://www.nps.gov/glba/ in the NPS “Alaska Park Science” See related story on page 32 planyourvisit/landslides-and-giant- series, providing an initial assess- waves.htm ment of areas where landslides could Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/ enter the water of Glacier Bay and natural-hazards/landslide-hazards/ generate tsunamis. science/potential-landslide-paths-

Online Tool for Landslide Risks In October 2019, the USGS unveiled a new web-based interactive map that marks an important step toward mapping areas that could be at higher risk for future landslides. In collaboration with State geological surveys and other Federal agencies, the USGS has compiled much of the existing landslide data into a searchable, web-based interactive map called the U.S. Landslide Inventory Map. “Although landslides occur in every State, our understanding of landslide hazards at the national scale is limited because landslide information across the United States is incomplete, varies in quality, accessibility, and extent, and what is known is not collected in a central location,” said Jonathan Godt, USGS program coordinator for Landslide Hazards. Until now, no Federal agency has taken on the monumental task of systematically cataloging landslide occurrence across the United States. Existing digital data on landslide occurrence are held by a range of Federal, State, and local government agencies, and no central point of access has previously been available. Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/news/ Map of Glacier Bay showing the relative probability landslide-risks-highlighted-new-online-tool of landslides entering the water along the coastline of the West Arm. Map credit: USGS

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Coastal Change Happens! USGS Introduces a National Approach to Coastal Change Hazards Science By Drew LaPointe, John Haines, and Ann Tihansky (USGS) coastlines, how the coast can change through time, and the potential haz- The importance of our Nation’s develop smart infrastructure within a ards associated with these changes. coasts is indisputable. Our coasts are changing landscape. Although CCH is advancing this crucial to the livelihoods of mil- From relaxing sandy beaches and research and forecasting, a key aspect lions of Americans (40 percent live barrier islands, ecologically produc- is to work directly with stakehold- in coastal counties), serve as criti- tive marshes, and magnificent rocky ers to ensure that science products cal habitats for many species, offer coasts and cliffs to tropical islands are usable by communities so they protection from storms, and are places fringed by coral reefs and permafrost can better understand, identify, and for adventure and tranquility. No coasts where ice holds the sediments prepare for coastal hazards and can matter how calm and peaceful our together, each coastline is unique and take action in reducing risks posed coasts may sometimes seem, they faces different elements of coastal by them. are changing constantly, sometimes change. The USGS Coastal Change Coastal change is inevitable, but substantially, which can present Hazards (CCH) research uses a coastal management decisions that challenges for planning and reducing variety of approaches to better under- are guided by USGS CCH science risk. Therefore, our citizens need the stand changes across the range of and tools can help our society reduce best-available information and tools coastal environments. risk and losses. Through the focused to inform decisions to reduce societal efforts on coastal change hazards and risk, protect natural resources, and The CCH activities focus on coordi- nating research and delivering data growing connections to other areas of and tools needed to USGS expertise and capabilities, we respond to coastal are fulfilling the vision of a Nation change hazards. that prospers by using scientific Together, these data knowledge to prepare for, mitigate, and tools describe our and respond to threats posed by our dynamic coasts. Through this col- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers restores laborative effort across the USGS, the coastline of St. CCH is providing reliable and trusted Augustine Beach, FL, science to protect the lives, prop- for protection and erty, and economic prosperity of our recreational use. Photo Nation’s coasts. credit: Mark Bias, USACE Read more: http://ow.ly/Zv9950BJX5j

Coastal Change Hazards within a 21st Century Vision The USGS has a long history of advancing Earth science and identifying opportunities to integrate across disciplines to address complex societal problems. “Coastal change hazards science is a prime example of this legacy. The CCH works to bring together research, applications and communications to effectively deliver useful information and tools directly to those who need it to help minimize natural hazard risks along our Nation’s coastlines,” said USGS Natural Hazards Mission Area Associate Director David Applegate. The USGS works with other Federal agencies, such as NOAA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to advance our Nation’s hazard science and deliver information. “These collaborations are beneficial for advancing both research and public safety. For example, by integrating the USGS CCH coastal change models with NOAA’s wave and surge forecasts, we are able to provide emergency managers and coastal communities with more robust information to prepare for advancing storms.” Explore Coastal Hazards through Interactive Stories CCH has developed a series of educational, interactive geonarratives that take you on a journey across our Nation’s coastlines to learn about coastal change in various environments, to become familiar with the hazards posed by these changes, and to understand how USGS science and tools can help coastal communities mitigate these risks and prepare for future change. You can explore how barrier islands and shorelines move over time or how we forecast coastal change, learn how coral reefs make a difference in coastal protection, or interact with our tools for visualizing coastal storm impacts on the California coast. Explore all these geonarratives: https://www.usgs.gov/ center-news/our-nation-s-coasts-take-a-tour?qt-news_ science_products=5#qt-news_science_products

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Our Nation’s Coasts Coastal Storms Barrier Islands

https://wim.usgs.gov/geonarrative/cch- https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/ https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/ ourcoasts/ index.html?appid=4ce74734f4d2470299e831c index.html?appid=c33ecf46cf1d4ad0aec6d9 11bfbd1d6 5a7a87589f Real-Time Forecasts of Coastal The Role of U.S. Coral Reefs in Coastal National Shoreline Change Change Protection

https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/ https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/ https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/ index.html?appid=301969676f9945a1873dfd index.html?appid=e1dd6abdd79d4887a4b7e index.html?appid=e6d00dcfb0794292844d3 dcffe1c890 4bf422db43c 48a39f13096

Scientists Map Tectonic Structure Below the Seafloor of Puerto Rico By Heather Dewar (USGS)

A sequence of earthquakes starting in took place millennia ago but most December 2019, including a magni- seismic activity has been on the tude 6.4 quake on January 7, 2020 north side of the island. startled residents of southern Puerto The USGS is working to identify Rico. Aftershocks are expected to and map faults in the region to continue for years. estimate the location and magni- When USGS research geophysi- tude of potential earthquakes. With cist Uri ten Brink, learned about more than 3 million U.S. citizens in the Puerto Rico quakes, he quickly Puerto Rico and the USVI, the risk launched a seismic research cruise off to lives and property from earth- Locations of multichannel seismic reflection the island’s south coast. As project quakes and tsunamis is significant. profiles off the southern coast of Puerto Rico lead for a marine geohazards project, USGS seismic research can help (in black), are overlain on colored and shaded he and his team have mapped faults inform better building codes, safer multibeam bathymetry, Lidar topography (green off the island’s north coast. But the and white) and near-shore bathymetry (darker zoning, and public education about blue), and NOAA coastal relief model (light blue sea floor close to the south coast was earthquake hazards. and white). Image credit: Uri ten Brink, USGS. High largely unexplored. “This data will eventually help seis- resolution image: https://www.usgs.gov/news/ USGS seismologists were surprised mologists develop a clearer picture usgs-scientists-find-seafloor-faults-near-puerto-rico- quakes-epicenters by where the earthquakes occurred. of tectonic activity in the area,” ten Puerto Rico lies on an active tectonic Brink said. “The USGS research find- Learn more: https://www.usgs.gov/ boundary part of the subduction zone ings are being used to improve build- news/usgs-scientists-find-seafloor- between the Caribbean and North ing codes that will help Puerto Rico faults-near-puerto-rico-quakes- American plates. There is geologic better withstand future earthquakes epicenters evidence of earthquakes that probably and to better prepare for tsunamis.”

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Mapping Geohazards in the Cascadia Subduction Zone By Janet Watt, Jenna Hill, Nathan Miller, and Ann Tihansky (USGS) Starting in 2018, USGS, BOEM, and and detached seastacks scattered NOAA have been working together among sandy beaches littered with with several academic (University of smooth stones and giant beach logs. Washington, University of Hawai’i, The area is rich with marine wildlife Humboldt State University, Scripps and a vibrant coastal tourism industry The Cascadia Subduction Zone, located Institution of Oceanography, Oregon built around maritime activities. The in the U.S. Pacific Northwest and State University) and private (Mon- natural resources sustain millions of southwestern British Columbia has hosted terey Bay Aquarium Research Insti- dollars in commercial fishing and magnitude ≥8.0 megathrust earthquakes tute, Ocean Exploration Trust) scien- aquaculture annually. The economic in the geologic past; a future earthquake is imminent, and the potential impacts tists along the Northwest Pacific Coast importance of the region and, as the could cripple the region. Subduction zone to integrate geologic sampling and travel and transportation gateway earthquakes represent some of the most geophysical mapping to better assess to the Pacific and Asia, is also quite devastating natural hazards on Earth. earthquake, landslide, and tsunami extensive. Image credit: USGS hazards along the Pacific Northwest Cascadia is part of the Earth’s famous infrastructure. Much of the evidence coastline. “Ring of Fire,” created by subduction of this activity can be observed This region, also known as Casca- zone processes as Earth’s tectonic through marine geologic mapping in dia, extends over 500 million square plates collide and move past each the offshore areas. miles from northern California north other. The grand landscape reflects its See related story, page 27. into Canada’s British Columbia and geologic origins. Volcanoes and earth- The offshore geologic research and includes Washington, Oregon, and quakes are characteristic features, with mapping is foundational to under- parts of Idaho, Montana, and southeast large-scale tectonic movements that standing how to manage resources and Alaska. The iconic volcanoes of the create some of Earth’s largest earth- improve public safety. This research is inland Cascade Range create a stun- quakes. These tectonic processes also focused along major themes of under- ning backdrop for the rugged Cascadia generate tsunamis and landslides that standing earthquake recurrence by coastline, which includes steep, for- can substantially alter the landscape, looking at sedimentary records, evi- ested coastal cliffs, rocky headlands, threaten human lives, and destroy dence of recent seafloor deformation, features that could generate tsunamis, and deep marine seeps and fluids that may support unique ecosystems. Together, the analyses are used to assess earthquake, tsunami, and land- slide hazards, evaluate the risks they pose to society, and develop products that enhance situational awareness throughout the Cascadia region. Explore more: https://www. usgs.gov/centers/pcmsc/science/ cascadia-subduction-zone-marine- geohazards?qt-science_center_ objects=0#qt-science_center_objects Read more about the risks in subduc- tion zones: https://doi.org/10.3133/ fs20173024 Learn more: https://earthquake.usgs. Multibeam bathymetry shown in the spectrum from red (shallower) to blue (deeper) for depths gov/data/crust/cascadia.php greater than 200 m across the head of Astoria Canyon. The land and continental shelf are Explore Pacific Coast and Puget shown in grayscale slope shading where darker colors represent steeper slopes. The modern Columbia River is far right. In 2019, geophysical surveys using Chirp subbottom and Sparker Sound Hydrographic Survey Projects multichannel seismic surveys were conducted in conjunction with an instrumented tripod 2018: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/ deployment. This work is a partnership with University of Washington scientists to understand MapJournal/index.html?appid=ed81e sediment gravity flows and sources of turbidity currents associated with earthquake shaking. e11854549b08fe9f327a26d40e3 Data sources: USGS/NOAA OCS, Ocean Exploration Trust, NCEI. Map credit: Jenna Hill, USGS

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Coastal Change Mapping and Research in Alaska forcings such as coastal storms and atmospheric conditions, the USGS By Ann E. Gibbs and Li H. Erikson (USGS) CMTS has met to review goals and can develop better models for under- Alaska has the longest coastline in objectives and to develop a strategy to standing long-term vulnerability the Nation. Alaska’s 66,000 miles of guide and track Alaska coastal map- from coastal hazards and help coastal Arctic and sub-Arctic shorelines and ping efforts. managers and communities plan for a coastal ecosystems are geologically changing climate. Initial assessments Here, we highlight three ongoing complex and diverse. They include are complete for the coast north of projects that fulfill part of our national glacial fjords, 52 active volcanoes, a the Bering Strait to the United States- strategy of advancing scientific under- delta that is 12 times larger than the Canadian border. The next phase of standing and providing information Mississippi Delta, inlets, bays, parks, analysis extends the study area south needed for managing and operating and refuges. These coasts have a long to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. within Alaska’s diverse and remote history as places of subsistence, indig- Updated shoreline change rates will be coastal environments. These projects enous culture, and economic opportu- calculated as new shoreline datasets are also focused on bringing Alaska nity for many Alaskans. They are also are available. coastal mapping products and data known for their hazardous weather Alaska Coastal Processes and Hazards and challenging ocean conditions and into other ongoing nationwide efforts The current warming trend across the constitute a tremendous strategic, to ensure that comparable and consis- Arctic and Alaska is bringing dramatic economic, and ecological resource to tent data and tools are available across reductions in sea ice extent, perma- the Nation. the Nation. The USGS, BOEM, and NOAA are currently collaborating frost thaw, and changing climatic Accurate and contemporary mapping with the State of Alaska, the Univer- and oceanographic patterns. Coastal of Alaska’s coastal and nearshore sities of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) impacts resulting from these changes regions is critical to informed use and Fairbanks (UAF), the AOOS, are multidimensional and include of these vast resources, to maritime and Axiom Data Science to map and rapid coastal erosion that threatens domain awareness, to safeguarding expand our understanding of coastal village and facility infrastructure, the health and security of coastal change processes and hazards along ecosystem stability, and critical communities, and to strengthening the Alaska’s enormous remote shoreline. cultural and social networks and Blue Economy. National Assessment of Shoreline needs. Parallel to the negative effects In June 2020, the State of Alaska, the Change on the Coast of Alaska are new and emerging opportunities related to increasing accessibility Alaska Ocean Observing System, and The USGS National Assessment of and economic opportunities that also the Alaska Mapping Executive Com- Shoreline Change and Alaska Coastal need to be addressed in planning and mittee (AMEC), co-chaired by NOAA Processes and Hazards projects development strategies. This project and the USGS, and includes many quantify rates and patterns of Alaskan is focused on identifying hazards, to other Federal agencies, published shoreline change. By understanding quantify risk, and to evaluate effects a report to support the November the causal relation between shoreline 2019 Presidential Memorandum that change and sediment movement with See Alaska page 30 directed Federal agencies to develop a strategy to map the Alaskan coastline. Read the strategy: https://iocm.noaa. gov/about/documents/strategic-plans/ alaska-mapping-strategy-june2020. pdf Additionally, a consortium of Federal agencies, the Alaska Ocean Observ- ing System (AOOS), and the State of Alaska are participating on the AMEC’s Coastal Mapping Technical Subcommittee (CMTS) to develop the plan to map coastal Alaska. The CMTS includes representatives from Federal and State agencies with responsibilities and jurisdictional Color-coded shoreline change rates and key geographic locations on the north coast of Alaska. authority in Alaskan coastal areas. The Image credit: USGS

29 NEWSWAVE • Fall 2020

Alaska continued from page 29 Blue Economy of past, present, and future coastal Learn more about how much value our oceans bring to different economies, from processes on infrastructure, biology, local communities to global markets. These include sectors related to seafood and people along the Alaskan coast, production, tourism and recreation, ocean exploration, marine transportation, and including the Arctic. The methods coastal resilience. integrate field studies and numerical Learn More modeling for better characterizing of NOAA fact sheet: https://www.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/ future flood hazards, bluff recession, Leadership%20in%20Powering%20the%20American%20Blue%20Economy.pdf and barrier island morphodynamics. World Bank infographic: https://www.worldbank.org/en/ Wave and Hydrodynamic news/infographic/2017/06/06/blue-economy) Observations and Modeling in the Department of State announcement: https://www.state. Nearshore Beaufort Sea gov/u-s-announces-1-21-billion-to-support-blue-economy- BOEM requires environmental commitment-strengthens-sustainability-of-ocean-economy- information about the effects that enhances-health-of-planet-and-advances-global-economic- present-day and future sea-ice and security/ atmospheric conditions will have NOAA press release: https://www.noaa.gov/media-release/ during the expected timeframe of the marine-economy-in-2018-grew-faster-than-us-overall offshore Liberty Development Project (about 2020–50) on the northern shore of Alaska. Renewed interest in near- shore oil exploration and production in the central Beaufort Sea requires advanced understanding of the dynamic physical conditions in this Map of proposed coastal region. The USGS is develop- general location of ing a coupled wave-hydrodynamic- Liberty Development Project with the study sediment transport model to produce model domain in the a 40-year hindcast (1979–2019) and Foggy Island Bay and projection (2020–49) of waves, storm Stefansson Sound area surge, and sediment transport poten- of the Beaufort Sea tials within Foggy Island Bay and the on the north coast of greater Stefansson Sound. A coordi- Alaska. Photo credit: AOOS nated field effort was completed in 2019 and historical observational data Ways to Reduce Marine Mammal Vulnerability to Shipping were compiled to better characterize the system and support model calibra- Although focused primarily on assessing marine mammal vulnerability, the study tion and validation. (See related story on page 31) also lists effective conservation-oriented strategies already in place elsewhere. Such practices include avoiding key habitats, adjusting Learn More transit timing during migration periods, minimizing sound disturbance, setting Arctic Ocean climate change: https:// speed limits, and developing methods to help ships detect and avoid animals. www.usgs.gov/natural-hazards/ The study also cites the use of “Dynamic Spatial Management,” which establishes coastal-marine-hazards-and- temporary protective zones, or rolling resources/science/climate-change-us- closures, that change in accordance with arctic-ocean-margins peak migration activity. Arctic coasts climate impacts: https:// Learn More www.usgs.gov/centers/pcmsc/science/ climate-impacts-arctic-coasts Alaska Public Lands: https://www.nps.gov/ Coastal change hazards: https://www. anch/index.htm usgs.gov/natural-hazards/coastal- Bering Land Bridge National Preserve: https:// marine-hazards-and-resources/ www.nps.gov/bela/index.htm Narwhals, the only tusked whale on science/national-assessment-coastal- Cape Krusenstern National Monument: earth, are found only in the Arctic change https://www.nps.gov/cakr/index.htm Ocean. The study found narwhals to Foggy Island Bay and Stefansson be the most vulnerable of all endemic Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve: Sound study: https://aoos.org/foggy/ Arctic marine mammals. Photo credit: https://www.nps.gov/gaar/index.htm Kristin Laidre

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Sea Change, Shipping, and Marine Species Studying Arctic Marine Mammals in the Shipping Age By NPS

As shipping activity increases in the marine mammal species Arctic region, a team of research- are unknown despite their ers studied how marine mammals, critical social and ecological endemic to the Arctic Ocean, will roles in the ecosystem…” fare in order to address the challenges Hauser and co-authors for managing natural resources on Kristin Laidre and Harry public lands. Stern hope that the results After centuries of ice-bound isola- of this study will invite This map of the Arctic Ocean and surrounding land masses tion, two shipping routes, the North- a proactive approach for indicates levels of vulnerability in September for all marine developing marine mammal- mammals in the study. Note the narrow Bering Strait and west Passage and the Northern Sea Lancaster Sound above Canada have the highest levels of Route, now sit poised to become safe shipping practices vulnerability. Image credit: Donna Hauser, NPS major shipping lanes, as the Arctic while Arctic waters are still relatively calm. rapidly warms. partially attributed to their limited Since 1979, September sea ice extent The team looked at 80 subpopula- geographic range and heavy pres- in the Arctic has retreated 14 percent tions of the seven marine mammals ence in the high Arctic in September per decade. Current projections are found only in the Arctic: beluga in close proximity to shipping routes. that by the year 2040, the region will (Delphinapterus leucas) and bowhead Narwhals’ sensitivity to vessel sounds experience summers free of sea ice. (Balaena mysticetus) whales, narwhals and innately skittish behavior, which Planning for large-scale vessel tran- (Monodon monoceros), ringed (Pusa causes them to avoid regions where sit through the Arctic is already well hispida) and bearded (Erignathus ships are present, also increased their underway. Donna Hauser, the princi- barbatus) seals, walruses (Odobenus vulnerability rating. rosmarus), and polar bears (Ursus pal author of a study says, “these are Finally, the study identified two maritimus). Each species studied is endemic species that have never seen regions where ship-mammal encoun- a key component of the short Arctic large numbers of big vessels. We’re ters are particularly likely. The Lan- food chain and serves as a critical right on the precipice of what could caster Sound in northern Canada and cultural and subsistence resource to be an emerging risk factor.” This is Alaska’s Bering Strait essentially act coastal indigenous communities. They only a first step in addressing issues as geographic bottlenecks, funneling are also all increasingly susceptible to that are likely to become increas- all shipping traffic and marine mam- climate change. ingly important in the Arctic’s rapidly mals through narrow passages. Only changing ecosystem. Hauser and her co-authors reviewed 53 miles wide in its narrowest point, The study, “Vulnerability of Artic hundreds of studies and assigned the Bering Strait provides critical Marine Mammals to Vessel Traffic in vulnerability scores to each popula- access to Arctic bounty for migrating the Increasingly Ice-free Northwest tion based on the combination of marine mammals. It is also, however, Passage and Northern Sea Route,” sensitivity to vessels and the degree of a key throughway for ships access- quantifies the effects of shipping on exposure to sea routes. The research ing the Northern Sea Route and the Arctic marine mammals and identi- focused on animal activity during Northwest Passage. Ships and marine fies those most vulnerable. The study, the month of September, when ice is mammals passing through these zones produced by a team of researchers at at its lowest levels, and shipping is were found to be 2–3 times more the University of Alaska Fairbanks expected to peak. likely to come into contact than along and the University of Washington and The study found that 53 percent of the any other part of either shipping route. funded by the National Aeronautics subpopulations spent time in either Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/ and Space Administration (NASA) the Northwest Passage, the Northern articles/studying-arctic-marine- and the Collaborative Alaskan Arctic Shipping Route, or both, during Sep- mammals-in-the-shipping-age.htm Studies Program, is the first circumpo- tember. In general, they found whales Read the study: https://www.pnas.org/ lar assessment of its kind. to be more vulnerable than seals content/115/29/7617 According to the study, “the poten- because of their high exposure levels. tial impacts…on endemic Arctic In the Arctic at large, narwhals were deemed most vulnerable to shipping

31 The Surfing Bison Potential Landslide and Tsunami Hazards in Prince William Sound

https://www.usgs.gov/center-news/barry-arm-landslide-and-tsunami-hazard USGS radar data and imagery: http://ow.ly/JVpI50BbS9e

In May 2020, a large but slow-moving National Weather Service National “We strongly encourage you to take landslide, was detected in the Barry Arm Tsunami Warning Center is working to this threat seriously and avoid this part of Harriman Fjord 28 miles northeast of put a tsunami warning system in place. of Prince William Sound,” said ADGGS Whittier, Alaska on Prince William Sound. Analysis of recent satellite imagery Director Steve Masterman. Stay off this The large steep slope known as the Barry has shown renewed movement of the slope. Rockfall has been observed in this Arm landslide, has the potential to slide landslide. The USGS measured 8 inches area. Please heed U.S. Coast Guard safety into the water and generate a tsunami of downslope movement between information and remember your natural, that could have devastating local effects October 9 and October 24 by comparing early-warning signs for a tsunami may on those who live, work, and recreate in earlier interferometric synthetic aperture be your best and only alert. “We ask that the area. radar (InSAR) satellite imagery with everyone continue to avoid this part of Since public safety is the priority, more recent satellite data. It is the first Prince William Sound. We take this threat the USGS and the Alaska Division of detectable motion of the landslide seriously and encourage those in the Geological and Geophysical Surveys since active surveillance began May 26. Sound to have a plan in case of tsunami.” (ADGGS) have been remotely monitoring Previously, between 2009 and 2015, the See related story page 25 movement of the large landslide landslide slid 600 feet downslope. View information from the State (Landslide A), a smaller landslide There is no indication a significant slope of Alaska’s Department of Natural (Landslide B), and the northwest-facing failure is imminent, or that one will Resources: http://ow.ly/2IEj50BbS9d slope on the opposite side of Barry happen anytime soon. Still, people in Read the Press Release: http://dnr.alaska. Glacier every 24 days using satellite radar the area should be aware of the risk and gov/commis/pic/releases/11-10-20%20 images. The rough terrain and remote follow advice from emergency managers Satellite%20imagery%20shows%20 location limits field-based ground to be prepared. An interagency science renewed%20movement%20of%20 monitoring so remote-sensing imagery team of state, federal and other scientists Barry%20Arm%20landslide.pdf (satellite-based synthetic aperture radar) continues to monitor the situation and is used to accurately monitor landslide will update the public. movement. In addition, the NOAA

Aerial view of Barry Arm Fjord and glacier on June 26, 2020, showing outlines of potential landslide areas. Photo credit: Gabe Wolken 32