Thirty-year study reveals US Gulf bays at risk of severe flooding. 
Researchers reporting on the flooding risks facing the United States Gulf Coast, from Alabama to Texas, point to rising sea levels as a key risk factor. Dr. John Anderson, a professor in oceanography and earth science at Rice University, explained that the ocean bays are close to experiencing flood levels last seen in the Holocene era some 9,600 years ago. Of particular concern is the observation from several recent studies that sea level increase along the Gulf Coast has doubled in the past century. This is due to global warming as well as dam construction that has restricted the natural flow of sediment into the bays, thus jeopardizing protective wetlands.

Our sincere appreciation, Dr. Anderson and colleagues, for helping us to understand the climate change-related risks to the Gulf Coast. Let’s all join in quickly taking action to recover the natural balance of our biosphere.

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-10/ru-bou100208.php 

Barbados is losing its coral reefs.

James Blades, environmentalist and a founding member of the Barbados Marine Trust, has reported that the entire coral reef off Barbados’ West Coast has perished and that the reef near the South Coast is heading toward a similar fate. The reefs are not only valued for their beauty, they are considered essential in preserving and protecting the island’s sandy beaches. Mr. Blades further stated that apart from ongoing human-made pollution, climate change is a major contributor to the rapid loss of the island’s coral reefs.

We send our heartfelt appreciation, Mr. Blades and Barbados Marine Trust, for this information about the plight of the highly sensitive coral reefs. We pray for humanity’s awareness to lighten our planetary steps for the restoration of the beauty and variety of all beings in our world.

http://www.nationnews.com/story/292768860048588.php