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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

A salty river in southeast Louisiana poses a public health crisis, threatening drinking water for thousands.
Aerial view of Plaquemines Parish in the lower Mississippi River Basin.

A Salty River Poses Public Health Risks, Pollutes Drinking Water in Southeast Louisiana

Aerial view of Plaquemines Parish in the lower Mississippi River Basin.

Plaquemines Parish, located in the final 70 miles of the Mississippi River, faces increasing saltwater intrusion from the Gulf of Mexico, aggravated by climate change-induced droughts. This saltwater intrusion threatens the drinking water supply for over 20,000 residents.

An occurrence once per decade has become an annual challenge as the river’s flow drops below 300,000 cubic feet per second, allowing saltwater to advance. Last year, the saltwater wedge nearly reached New Orleans, causing widespread concern.

This year, Plaquemines Parish president Keith Hinkley noted the visible saltwater encroachment. The parish struggled with saltwater affecting drinking water in 2023, leading to bottled water purchases and damaged appliances. The chloride content posed risks of dehydration and potential lead contamination from outdated pipes.

Immediate solutions include water treatment upgrades and a saltwater sill, a temporary underwater structure preventing further saltwater ingress. Without it, the salt wedge could move 20 miles upriver, said Ehab Meselhe, a professor of River-Coastal Science at Tulane University.

Experts warn that the Mississippi River Valley needs long-term solutions beyond current temporary measures. Hydrologists like Paul Miller from Louisiana State University suggest comprehensive infrastructure changes to combat these saltwater threats.

The Atmosphere’s “Thirst for Moisture”

Saltwater intrusion in 2022 and 2023 has been partly attributed to a drought in the Midwest, affecting flow in the Mississippi River Basin. However, researchers now point to complex, multi-year weather patterns as contributing factors.

Miller examines the impact of evaporative demand, or the atmosphere’s “thirst for moisture,” on the saltwater wedge. His research indicates that periods of high evaporative demand historically align with saltwater wedge appearances.

While rainfall can mitigate low flow, extreme weather shows it is not always a solution. For instance, Hurricane Helene’s rain briefly increased river flow, but it soon returned to critical levels, explained Matthew Wilson from the National Weather Service.

Effective rain, which absorbs into groundwater, is necessary to maintain river flow, but extreme rain events often result in runoff, not replenishing groundwater reserves. As global temperatures rise, such extreme weather may become more common.

The Cost of Salt Water

Over the past three years, the saltwater sill has been Louisiana’s main defense against the salt wedge, acting as a temporary dam. Yet, it is often built too far upriver to protect Plaquemines’s drinking water. The Army Corps of Engineers spent over $20 million on sill construction in 2023 alone.

Long-term solutions remain uncertain. Meselhe is exploring ways to make river flow more efficient by addressing crevasses in levees that weaken the river’s ability to push out saltwater.

Local utilities bear responsibility for clean water, with Plaquemines Parish installing reverse osmosis systems to combat saltwater intrusion. However, the high cost—up to $1 million monthly—raises concerns about long-term affordability.

Plaquemines Parish has received state and FEMA assistance, but further upgrades may require millions more.

Greater regional collaboration could offer more sustainable solutions, similar to the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority formed post-Hurricane Katrina. Hinkley hopes for increased urgency and action when saltwater threatens southern communities.

Original Story at www.sierraclub.org

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COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024