Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

2 weeks ago | usgs.gov | Zoe Zimmerman |Ryan Mulligan |Curt Storlazzi

Wave energy loss across the reef: Although waves were powerful near the reef crest, they dissipated quickly. By the time they reached the shallow reef flat, wave heights were less than 0.5 meters (1.6 feet), significantly reducing their impact on the shore. Coral Reefs as Coastal BuffersThe study adds to the growing body of evidence showing that fringing coral reefs act as critical buffers against storm waves, absorbing and dissipating energy before it reaches land.

3 weeks ago | usgs.gov | Kaitlin Laabs |Janet Barclay |John R. Mullaney |Jiajun Luo

link March 24, 2025 Coastal Acidification Monitoring in Long Island Sound Understanding coastal acidification, as it varies from open ocean acidification, is crucial to identifying the unique problems occurring in coastal ecosystems such as Long Island Sound (LIS). The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is monitoring water quality parameters throughout LIS and its embayments to evaluate the status and trends of acidification processes in these waters. This project will... Learn More

1 month ago | usgs.gov

Moose populations (Alces alces) in New England are experiencing reduced birth rates, and lower than normal calf and adult survival caused by severe winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus) infestations. In the early spring of bad years, it is common to see “Ghost Moose” which are skeletal, and nearly hairless. The ghastly appearance of these moose combined with the population effects of the ticks has caused alarm by moose managers and the public in affected area. USGS researchers at the Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, on the campus of University of Massachusetts, are partnering with Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, University of New Hampshire, and the Penobscot Nation, to monitor winter tick distribution and abundance and help understand effective adaptation and mitigation strategies to prevent negative effects on moose populations.

Jan 20, 2025 | usgs.gov

Understanding the Risks of Future Volcanic Activity in Partnership with Oregon State University

Jan 15, 2025 | usgs.gov

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — A new study shows coral reef restoration in Florida and Puerto Rico could save thousands of lives and prevent hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and economic disruption each year. Restoration efforts would most benefit children, the elderly, minorities, and those living below the U.S. Census Bureau's poverty threshold.