Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026
06:06
Sediment Core Extrusion Method at Millimeter Resolution Using a Calibrated, Threaded-rod
Published on: August 17, 2016
Comment on "Wetland sedimentation from hurricanes Katrina and Rita"
Torbjörn E Törnqvist1, Chris Paola, Gary Parker
1Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA. tor@tulane.edu
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|April 14, 2007
Summary
Hurricane deposition rates in Louisiana are overestimated, while Mississippi River sediment input is underestimated. These findings challenge previous conclusions about coastal restoration strategies.
Area of Science:
- Geological Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Coastal Dynamics
Background:
- Turner et al. reported on sedimentation from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in coastal Louisiana.
- Their study inferred that storm deposition surpasses direct Mississippi River sediment input.
Discussion:
- The annualized hurricane deposition rate cited by Turner et al. appears to be overestimated.
- Conversely, riverine deposition is underestimated by at least an order of magnitude.
- The quantitative basis for coastal restoration decisions derived from their data is questionable.
Key Insights:
- Re-evaluation of sedimentation data from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
- Correction of deposition rate calculations for both hurricane and riverine sources.
- Highlighting the critical underestimation of Mississippi River sediment input.
Outlook:
- Revised data necessitates reassessment of coastal restoration strategies in Louisiana.
- Accurate sediment budget assessments are crucial for effective coastal management.
- Further research should focus on precise quantification of sediment sources for deltaic restoration.
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