U.S. Geological Survey – News
- • Malaria Transmission Peaks at Much Cooler Temperatures than Previously Predicted: Oct. 24, 2012, The most deadly type of malaria in humans and the one most prevalent in Africa is one that is very sensitive to climate. Previously published scientific studies put the optimal temperature for malaria transmission from mosquitos to humans at 31 degrees C (88 degrees F), but according to a new mathematical model, the temperature for peak transmission of the parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, is much, much lower...
- • USGS Climate Science at ESA – Species, Ecosystems, and Fire: Aug. 6, 2012, About 4,000 people are expected to attend the annual meeting of the Ecological Society of America in Portland, Ore., Aug. 5-10. The theme of this year’s conference is “Life on Earth: Preserving, Utilizing and Sustaining our Ecosystems.”
- • Acid Rain Study Show Substantial Decreases, But More Progress Is Needed: Jan. 19, 2012, Measurable improvements in air quality and visibility, human health, and water quality in many acid-sensitive lakes and streams, have been achieved through emissions reductions from electric generating power plants and resulting decreases in acid rain...
- • New Study confirms Significant Land Loss Along Louisiana Coast: June 3, 2011, Coastal Louisiana has lost more than 1.2 million acres in the past 78 years, according to a new study by the U.S. Geological Survey National Wetlands Research Center. The study analyzed wetland changes from 1932 to 2010 and provides a more accurate picture than previously available...
- • New Discoveries Improve Climate Models: Feb. 3, 2011, New discoveries on how underwater ridges impact the ocean’s circulation system will help improve climate projections. An underwater ridge can trap the flow of cold, dense water at the bottom of the ocean. Without the ridge, deepwater...
- • More Frequent Drought Likely in Eastern Africa: Jan. 28, 2011, The increased frequency of drought observed in eastern Africa over the last 20 years is likely to continue as long as global temperatures continue to rise, according to new research published in Climate Dynamics. This poses increased risk to the estimated 17.5 million...