Shallow prairie wetlands are vulnerable to drought, which climatologists believe will occur with greater frequency and severity as global warming increases. According to Sorenson's study, the number of prairie ponds the waterfowl use could be cut in half by 2060. And while ducks can adapt to changing breeding conditions by moving to other areas, their population may decline if they're forced to move to areas with shorter breeding seasons and less available food. Unfortunately for the waterfowl, competing claims make it hard to balance needs in the pothole region. We don't know.
Wetland conservation is essential to protecting waterfowl habitats.
Sorenson and colleagues are currently identifying the least drought-sensitive areas of the prairie pothole region, so these sites can be placed on the priority list for protection. Better monitoring of habitat conditions and data on breeding areas outside the pothole region also are needed. Finally, citizens can do their part in reducing emissions that contribute to global warming. Electromagnetic fields are generated by various electrical consumer products and power lines. To date, EMF cases have been pursued on the basis of personal injury and loss of property value.