Natural Disturbances: Links for Students
Estuaries - Where Rivers Meet the Sea
Discover the fragility of estuaries, the diversity of animals and plants, and learn what estuaries provide for their inhabitants.
http://www.mbgnet.net/salt/sandy/estuaries.htm
Features: Graphics/Multimedia
Create an Ocean Weather Forecast
During summer months, coastal upwelling can have a major impact on the water conditions along the beach. Monitor changes to the ocean surface using real-time data and see this impact for yourself.
http://www.coolclassroom.org/cool_projects/lessons/
earth_science/earthscience.html
Features: Online Interactivity, Graphics/Multimedia, Assessment, Data Sources, Ask an Expert, Inquiry Materials
Natural Disturbances to Estuaries
Estuaries are fragile ecosystems that are very susceptible to disturbances. Natural disturbances include winds, tidal currents, waves, and ice.
http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/kits/
estuaries/estuaries08_natdisturb.html
Features: Graphics/Multimedia
Hurricanes: Foul Winds or Fair?
Although hurricanes are clearly destructive, in the long run they can also have positive effects. Read about the positives and negatives of hurricanes on the Louisiana coast.
http://www.lacoast.gov/watermarks/1998b-summer/1hurricanes/
Features: Graphics/Multimedia
Hurricane Impacts on the Coastal Environment
Hurricanes and extreme storms elevate sea levels. This is known as storm surge, and can cause extensive shoreline erosion and other geologic effects. Read how these processes affect shorelines such as the barrier islands of Louisiana.
http://marine.usgs.gov/fact-sheets/hurricane/hurricane-txt.html
Features: Graphics/Multimedia, Data Sources
