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Burger J, Gochfeld M, Lacy C. Concerns and future preparedness plans of a vulnerable population in New Jersey following Hurricane Sandy. DISASTERS 2019; 43:658-685. [PMID: 30990925 PMCID: PMC9647963 DOI: 10.1111/disa.12350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Knowing how people prepare for disasters is essential to developing resiliency strategies. This study examined recalled concerns, evacuation experiences, and the future preparedness plans of a vulnerable population in New Jersey, United States, following Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Understanding the responses of minority communities is key to protecting them during forthcoming disasters. Overall, 35 per cent of respondents were not going to prepare for an event. Intended future preparedness actions were unrelated to respondents' ratings of personal impact. More Blacks and Hispanics planned on preparing than Whites (68 versus 55 per cent), and more Hispanics planned on evacuating than did others who were interviewed. A higher percentage of respondents who had trouble getting to health centres were going to prepare than others. Respondents' concerns were connected to safety and survival, protecting family and friends, and having enough food and medicine, whereas future actions included evacuating earlier and buying sufficient supplies to shelter in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Distinguished Professor of Biology, Division of Life Sciences, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute and School of Public Health, Rutgers University, United States
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Professor Emeritus, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, United States
| | - Clifton Lacy
- Distinguished Professor of Professional Practice, School of Communication and Information, Clinical Professor of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and Director, Center for Emergency Preparedness, Infrastructure and Communication, Rutgers University, United States
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Burger J, Tsipoura N. Resident status influences perceptions about beach resource valuation and restoration. Urban Ecosyst 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11252-019-00860-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Talbot CJ, Bennett EM, Cassell K, Hanes DM, Minor EC, Paerl H, Raymond PA, Vargas R, Vidon PG, Wollheim W, Xenopoulos MA. The impact of flooding on aquatic ecosystem services. BIOGEOCHEMISTRY 2018; 141:439-461. [PMID: 30930510 PMCID: PMC6404734 DOI: 10.1007/s10533-018-0449-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Flooding is a major disturbance that impacts aquatic ecosystems and the ecosystem services that they provide. Predicted increases in global flood risk due to land use change and water cycle intensification will likely only increase the frequency and severity of these impacts. Extreme flooding events can cause loss of life and significant destruction to property and infrastructure, effects that are easily recognized and frequently reported in the media. However, flooding also has many other effects on people through freshwater aquatic ecosystem services, which often go unrecognized because they are less evident and can be difficult to evaluate. Here, we identify the effects that small magnitude frequently occurring floods (< 10-year recurrence interval) and extreme floods (> 100-year recurrence interval) have on ten aquatic ecosystem services through a systematic literature review. We focused on ecosystem services considered by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment including: (1) supporting services (primary production, soil formation), (2) regulating services (water regulation, water quality, disease regulation, climate regulation), (3) provisioning services (drinking water, food supply), and (4) cultural services (aesthetic value, recreation and tourism). The literature search resulted in 117 studies and each of the ten ecosystem services was represented by an average of 12 ± 4 studies. Extreme floods resulted in losses in almost every ecosystem service considered in this study. However, small floods had neutral or positive effects on half of the ecosystem services we considered. For example, small floods led to increases in primary production, water regulation, and recreation and tourism. Decision-making that preserves small floods while reducing the impacts of extreme floods can increase ecosystem service provision and minimize losses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceara J. Talbot
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Trent University, Peterborough, ON Canada
| | - Elena M. Bennett
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences and McGill School of Environment, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC Canada
| | - Kelsie Cassell
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Daniel M. Hanes
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Elizabeth C. Minor
- Large Lakes Observatory and Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, MN USA
| | - Hans Paerl
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Morehead City, NC USA
| | - Peter A. Raymond
- School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Yale University, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Rodrigo Vargas
- Department of Plant and Soil Science, University of Delaware, Newark, DE USA
| | - Philippe G. Vidon
- Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, The State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), Syracuse, NY USA
| | - Wilfred Wollheim
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH USA
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Burger J, Gochfeld M. Perceptions of severe storms, climate change, ecological structures and resiliency three years post-hurricane Sandy in New Jersey. Urban Ecosyst 2017; 20:1261-1275. [PMID: 29398897 PMCID: PMC5796432 DOI: 10.1007/s11252-017-0678-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Global warming is leading to increased frequency and severity of storms that are associated with flooding, increasing the risk to urban, coastal populations. This study examined perceptions of the relationship between severe storms, sea level rise, climate change and ecological barriers by a vulnerable environmental justice population in New Jersey. Patients using New Jersey's Federally Qualified Health Centers were interviewed after Hurricane [Superstorm] Sandy because it is essential to understand the perceptions of uninsured, underinsured, and economically challenged people to better develop a resiliency strategy for the most vulnerable people. Patients (N = 355) using 6 centers were interviewed using a structured interview form. Patients were interviewed in the order they entered the reception area, in either English or Spanish. Respondents were asked to rate their agreement with environmental statements. Respondents 1) agreed with experts that "severe storms were due to climate change", "storms will come more often", and that "flooding was due to sea level rise", 2) did not agree as strongly that "climate change was due to human activity", 3) were neutral for statements that "Sandy damages were due to loss of dunes or salt marshes". 4) did not differ as a function of ethnic/racial categories, and 5) showed few gender differences. It is imperative that the public understand that climate change and sea level rise are occurring so that they support community programs (and funding) to prepare for increased frequency of storms and coastal flooding. The lack of high ratings for the role of dunes and marshes in preventing flooding indicates a lack of understanding that ecological structures protect coasts, and suggests a lack of support for management actions to restore dunes as part of a coastal preparedness strategy. Perceptions that do not support a public policy of coastal zone management to protect coastlines can lead to increased flooding, extensive property damages, and injuries or loss of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Burger J, Gochfeld M, Pittfield T, Jeitner C. Responses of a vulnerable Hispanic population in New Jersey to Hurricane Sandy: Access to care, medical needs, concerns, and ecological ratings. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:315-325. [PMID: 28644717 PMCID: PMC5531200 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1297275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent increases in hurricanes led to a need to evaluate access to medical care, medical needs, and personal and community impact on vulnerable populations, particularly elderly, low income, and minority communities. This investigation examined (1) access to care, (2) interruptions in medical services, (3) personal impact from Hurricane Sandy, and (4) agreement with ecological statements related to storms, flooding, and damages in Hispanic/Latino patients receiving health care at Federally Qualified Health Centers in New Jersey. Only 10% of 335 Hispanic interviewees were US born. Self-identified personal impact was a better indicator of effects from Sandy, health center use, and medical issues, than community impact rating. Respondents who provided a high personal impact rating were more likely to have evacuated, had longer power outage, were more likely to need medical care, displayed more trouble getting to centers, and exhibited more medical interruptions during Sandy. A higher % respondents who evacuated, needed the center, had trouble getting there, and had more "medical need" than those who did not evacuate. The greatest impacts were on respondents who were told to evacuate before the storm, but did not (46% had "medical need"). The respondents had high agreement ratings for "storms are due to climate change," followed by "frequent and stronger storms will come more often," "flooding is due to sea level rise," and "changing climate is due mainly to human activity and not natural causes". These ratings may aid public policymakers and planners in developing resiliency strategies for vulnerable coastal communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Occupation and Environmental Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Occupation and Environmental Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Taryn Pittfield
- Division of Life Sciences, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Christian Jeitner
- Division of Life Sciences, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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Burger J, Gochfeld M, Niles L, Tsipoura N, Mizrahi D, Dey A, Jeitner C, Pittfield T. Stakeholder contributions to assessment, monitoring, and conservation of threatened species: black skimmer and red knot as case studies. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:60. [PMID: 28097613 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5731-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Stakeholder contributions to conservation projects often occur during the problem formulation stage, yet the role of stakeholders throughout the process is seldom considered. We examine the diversity of state and federal agencies, conservation organizations, other non-governmental organizations, environmental justice communities, consultants, industry, and the general public in the conservation of red knot (Calidris canutus rufa) and black skimmer (Rynchops niger) in New Jersey. We suggest that (1) governmental agencies provide the legal, regulatory, and management framework, but it is often the universities, conservation organizations, consultants, and the public that conduct the research and perform activities that lead to increased research and conservation efforts; (2) departments within agencies may have conflicting mandates, making it difficult to resolve differences in actions; (3) there is often conflict among and within state agencies and conservation organizations about roles and priorities; and (4) the role of the public is critical to ongoing research and conservation efforts. Identification of all the relevant stakeholders is necessary to recognizing competing claims, identifying the threats, deciding how to manage the threats, and enhancing population viability. Conflicts occur even within an agency when one department oversees science and protection of populations and another oversees and fosters an industry (aquaculture or fisheries, or permits for off-road vehicles). Conflicts also occur between resource agencies, industry, and conservation organizations. Recognizing the different stakeholders and their mandates, and encouraging participation in the process, leads to a better understanding of the threats, risks, and possible solutions when conflicts arise. Tracking stakeholder viewpoints and actions can lead to increased involvement and conflict resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA.
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Larry Niles
- Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, Greenwich, NJ, USA
| | - Nellie Tsipoura
- New Jersey Audubon, 11 Hardscrabble Road, Bernardsville, NJ, 07924, USA
| | - David Mizrahi
- New Jersey Audubon, 11 Hardscrabble Road, Bernardsville, NJ, 07924, USA
| | - Amanda Dey
- Endangered and Nongame Species Program, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Trenton, NJ, USA
| | - Christian Jeitner
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Taryn Pittfield
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
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Perceptions of Caucasian users about avian resources and beach restoration following hurricane Sandy. Urban Ecosyst 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11252-016-0598-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Burger J, Gochfeld M, Clarke J, Jeitner C, Pittfield T. Environmental Assessment for Sustainability and Resiliency for Ecological and Human Health. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 1. [PMID: 27468428 DOI: 10.13188/2471-4879.1000001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Considerable attention has been devoted to environmental assessment and monitoring, primarily by physical and biological scientists, and more recently by social scientists. However, population growth and global change have resulted in an imperative to assess the resiliency of the environment to adapt to large scale changes and to continue to produce goods and services for future generations (sustainability). Changing land use needs or expectations may require the remediation and restoration of degraded or contaminated land. This paper provides an overview of monitoring types, and discusses how indicators for the different monitoring types can be developed to address questions of ecological health, human health, and whether restoration and remediation are effective. We suggest that along with more traditional types of monitoring, agencies should consider recovery indicators or metrics, as well as resiliency metrics. We suggest that one goal of assessment should be to determine if management, remediation, restoration, and mitigation reduce recovery time, thus reducing community vulnerability and enhancing resiliency to environmental stressors and disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA; Consortium for Risk Evaluation and Stakeholder Participation, Vanderbilt University (Nashville Tennessee) and Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA; Environmental and Community Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
| | - James Clarke
- Environmental and Community Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA; Civil and Environmental Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Christian Jeitner
- Consortium for Risk Evaluation and Stakeholder Participation, Vanderbilt University (Nashville Tennessee) and Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Taryn Pittfield
- Consortium for Risk Evaluation and Stakeholder Participation, Vanderbilt University (Nashville Tennessee) and Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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