Outer Banks Times

The phenomenon of "Ghost Forests" is becoming increasingly prevalent along the southern east coast of the United States and even some areas further north. These forests, filled with dead trees and logs lying on the ground, are a result of both climate change and man's impact on the environment.

According to a report by Carolina Public Press, these ghost forests have been spreading for years. As the salt marshes transition to wetlands and maritime forests, the trees within them are in various stages of decomposition. Some have fallen, while others remain lush and green, surrounded by thick undergrowth. However, even the living trees are under threat from sea level rise and other impacts of climate change. Many of these ghost forests were previously wetlands.

PBS NC refers to these forests as the remains of once-thriving green woodlands that stored vast amounts of carbon. As the forests transform, the carbon they stored is being released back into the atmosphere, exacerbating the challenge of slowing climate change. These forests are ancient, dating back almost 2,000 years. When the ecosystem fails, it also leads to the failure of the forest.

The Star News highlights the locations where these ghost forests can be found along the east coast. They can be seen along the coasts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and the Chesapeake Bay, with their numbers increasing as climate change combines with man-made coastal engineering. This combination allows saltwater to seep further and further inland, impacting the health and vitality of these forests.

In conclusion, the emergence of ghost forests along the east coast is a direct consequence of climate change and man's manipulation of the coastal environment. These forests, filled with dead trees and logs, serve as a stark reminder of the ecological impacts of rising sea levels and other climate-related phenomena. As these ghost forests continue to spread, it is crucial that we address the root causes of climate change and take steps to mitigate its effects to protect our natural ecosystems.