Summary of Meteorologic and Atmospheric Monitoring Protocols for Cape Cod National Seashore
USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Coastal Research Field Station, University of Rhode Island, Cape Cod National Seashore. 2001. Summary of Meteorologic and Atmospheric Monitoring Protocols for Cape Cod National Seashore. U. S. Geological Survey. Narragansett, RI
Meteorologic and atmospheric agents (e.g. wind, solar radiation, rain, fog, salt spray, deposition) are important factors governing the activity of organisms, community composition, and the cycling of materials through the ecosystems of Cape Cod National Seashore (Table 1). Storm surges and their associated winds and waves can alter ocean and estuarine shoreline configurations (Nordstrom 1992; Giese and Aubrey 1987; Zeigler et al. 1959), and dramatically affect estuarine circulation and sedimentation processes (Roman et al. 1997; Aubrey and Speer 1985). Drought periods or excess precipitation influence seasonal water balance, affecting wetlands, kettle ponds, vernal pools, and groundwater resources (Portnoy et al. 2001; Leblanc et al. 1986). The effects of atmospheric deposition include the acidification of lakes and streams, nutrient enrichment of coastal waters, depletion of soil nutrients leading to the decline of sensitive habitats, agricultural crop damage, and impacts on ecosystem diversity (Jaworski et al. 1997; Hinga et al. 1991). Godfrey et al. (1999) provide an excellent overview of relationships between meteorologic and atmospheric processes and ecosystem responses specific to the Seashore. The dynamic nature of the weather and its meteorologic and atmospheric agents demonstrate the need for an on-site, comprehensive, long-term monitoring program.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Coastal Research Field Station; University of Rhode Island; Cape Cod National Seashore
- Date of Issue
- 2001-09
- Publisher
- U. S. Geological Survey
- Units
- CACO
- Keywords
- atmospheric conditions, Cape Cod National Seashore MA, Meteorology, Monitoring, Protocols