Three things I learned from the article by Ted Schuur include the effect climate change has on lightning, precipitation, and moisture in soil. From the reading, it is stated that increasing temperatures in North America due to climate change is increasing lightning strikes during storms and reducing precipitation and moisture levels on the ground. All these factors combine to rapidly increase the number of forest fires occurring the the northern part of North America.
The article relates to Environmental Science through the studies of the carbon cycle and animal habitats. As more organic material burns, more carbon is released into the atmosphere, further heating the earth and surrounding climates. Habitat loss comes into play when you consider how many animals will need to relocate to accommodate for their homes being burned down. This will definitely interfere with different food webs in different areas and create serious problems regarding survival of certain species.
A question I have after reading this is what point will the forest fires affect populated areas? A fire in Alaskan wilderness generally doesn't get as much attention as one in Central Park. Which factor needs to change for a large group of people to be directly affected?
How about we ask Mr. Owl.
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