Strong winds, high tides, and decreased wildlife population are just a few of the effects climate change has had on the Hudson River. The Hudson Valley has seen its share of irreversible climate damage, as erosion, deforestation, and species depopulation have already made their way to the area, damaging its well-preserved natural beauty. Luckily, there are groups, such as the Hudson Riverkeepers, who work diligently to prevent and minimize the changing environmental impact, but they say we must act now.
“We’ve already seen a decrease in native species, like rainbow smelt and tomcod, and an increase in water temperature by 4 degrees in the last sixty years,” remarked Chrissy Remien, Riverkeeper member and manager of the Hudson River Watershed Program. Her program, operated by state funding and volunteer support, works in conjunction with New York State to achieve conservation efforts on the Hudson River.
Although well-intentioned, it appears that some of these efforts are too little too late. Remien also noted the increase in invasive river species, such as grass carp, zebra mussels, and water chestnuts due to the waning number of natural predators.
Wildlife is not the only aspect of the Hudson River affected by climate change, as local aquatic businesses are finding it difficult to utilize their environment. “The winds have been so strong, so gusty all spring, it’s been impossible to find good days to bring people out,” complained Mark Capra, Vice Commodore of the Poughkeepsie Yacht Club, which offers canoe and kayak rentals to members and the general public.
While wind speeds can traditionally be tracked through anemometer-linked mobile apps or websites, variable climate conditions have caused increasingly unpredictable gusts and tide changes. This poses a massive safety issue to man-powered water crafts, such as canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rowing shells, who rely on consistent and calm water to operate.
Whether its decreased ecological variability, unpredictable winds and tides, or loss of tourism revenue, it is clear the effects climate change have on the Hudson River. Thankfully, with groups like the Riverkeepers, there may still be a fighting chance for preservation of a historic natural landmark.
