Are landscape patterns related to marsh loss processes?

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-1993

Abstract

Marsh loss that occurs in Louisiana is seldom associated with shoreline erosion of lakes and bayous; instead, marshes break up internally. Marsh loss is attributed to processes that stress vegetation, such as salt-water intrusion or excessive flooding, and occurs in two landscape patterns. We recently studied marsh loss processes where it occurred in a hotspot pattern and in a scattered pattern. Marsh loss at the hotspot proceeded by the previously recognized process of inadequate vertical accretion, which led to excessive flooding of the marsh surface, and subsequent plant stress followed by collapse of the marsh surface and ponding. Marsh loss at the scattered site proceeded by erosion of soil below the living root zone, which is a process that has not previously been recognized as important in Louisiana.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Coastal Zone: Proceedings of the Symposium on Coastal and Ocean Management

First Page

337

Last Page

348

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