TITLE:
Review on the Impact of Climate Change on Great Lakes Region’s Agriculture and Water Resources
AUTHORS:
Zeyu Shen
KEYWORDS:
Climate Change, Midwest USA, Agricultural Impacts, Urban Runoff, Sustainable Practices, Precipitation Patterns, Temperature Increase, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Soil Erosion, Water Management
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Geoscience and Environment Protection,
Vol.12 No.7,
July
30,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study investigates the multifaceted impacts of climate change on the Midwest region of the United States, particularly the rising temperatures and precipitation brought about by hot weather activities and technological advances since the 19th century. From 1900 to 2010, temperatures in the Midwest rose by an average of 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which would also lead to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Precipitation is also expected to increase due to increased storm activity and changes in regional weather patterns. This paper explores the impact of these changes on urban and agricultural areas. In urban areas such as the city of Chicago, runoff from the increasing impervious surface areas poses challenges to the drainage system, and agriculture areas are challenged by soil erosion, nutrient loss, and fewer planting days due to excessive rainfall. Sustainable solutions such as no-till agriculture and the creation of grassland zones are discussed. Using historical data, recent climate studies and projections, the paper Outlines ways to enhance the Midwest’s ecology and resilience to climate change.