Endangered Rivers ???

[science_spot]

We have all heard of endangered species.... maybe even endangered ecosystems or endangered languages.  But did you know there is also a list of endangered RIVERS?  I have to admit, I found this story a bit scary today.  Rivers are extremely important to our lives - they provide a source of freshwater, means of transporation, food, animal habitat, the list goes on and on.

This post is another in a series of those focusing on the Earth, as we celebrate Earth Day, April 22, 2009.

Could you even imagine if a major river near you was no longer there, or wasn't there in the manner you are accustomed to?  I couldn't.  I live on an island in a river.  Our river provides so many things to us, including freshwater, fish, recreation, tourism, and hydroelectric power.

American Rivers has released a report of endangered rivers since 1986.  Find today's list below, and read more about it here.

#1 - Sacramento-San Joaquin River System (CA)
#2 - Flint River (GA)
#3 - Lower Snake River (ID, OR, WA)
#4 - Mattawoman Creek (MD)
#5 - North Fork of the Flathead River (MT)
#6 - Saluda River (SC)
#7 - Laurel Hill Creek (PA)
#8 - Beaver Creek (AK)
#9 - Pascagoula River (MS)
#10 - Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway (MN, WI)

The reasons these rivers are on the list range from things such as outdated water management systems, dams, highway projects, excessive sewage waste, energy projects, to tourism.  Notice a trend here?  These are all man-driven issues.  We threaten our waterways by these numerous actions we take to "improve our lives".

What other endangered lists can you find?

 

Tonya

AKA sunmoonstars

The Science Spot

 

 

[Momforhealth]

Apr. 14, 2009 at 7:28 PM

I recently was looking for a place to fish with the kids.  I stumbled across information posted by a government office regarding rivers very near by to us.    This major river is warned against even stepping foot in the water not to mention fishing in it because the chemicals poured into it will cause cancer and other deadly diseases.  Its very sad actually because it is home to tons of wildlife and winds along a beautiful landscape.  I used to ride my mountain bike to a lovely spot and rest by it.  I had no idea.