Gulf Coastal Prairie and Marshes

Eighty percent or more of this continent's gadwalls, green-winged teal and redheads winter in this region. Two species of concern, pintails and lesser scaup, also winter in large numbers along the Gulf Coast and more than 90 percent of the world's mottled ducks live here year-round. In total, this region annually provides more than 2 billion waterfowl use days for ducks and geese. 

Sadly, the loss of Gulf coastal wetlands threatens this region's capacity to sustain desired populations of wintering waterfowl. About one-third of Louisiana's coastal marsh—nearly 1,900 square miles—has already been lost and losses continue at a rate of nearly 17 square miles a year. In neighboring Texas, coastal wetland loss is occurring at a rate of nine square miles a year. In addition, recent declines in rice production have further reduced the Gulf Coast region's capacity to support wintering waterfowl. As a result, DU and its partners are working to ensure that policy and management actions along the Gulf Coast help sustain agricultural practices and water resources that provide vital habitat for waterfowl. 

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill brought national attention to the Gulf Coast and the rich culture, traditions and economic significance of its wetlands. Potential funding from Clean Water Act penalties could provide the foundation for the long-term recovery of the Gulf Coast's expansive wetlands. This will require a significant long-term commitment to restoring the marsh-building processes that created and historically sustained this region's diverse and productive wetland systems. —Dr. Tom Moorman and Dr. Dale James