Historic ocean liner’s move to Gulf Coast delayed by rough weather

Historic ocean liner’s move to Gulf Coast delayed by rough weather

A retired ocean liner built during the 1950s and docked in Philadelphia since 1996 will be sunk off the coast of Florida as part of an artificial reef project. Expected rough seas have temporarily postponed the 990-foot ship’s journey from the Northeast to the Gulf Coast. The ship is set to be towed from Philadelphia to Mobile, Alabama, before becoming part of the world’s largest artificial reef.

Invasive species spotted for first time in Georgia

Invasive species spotted for first time in Georgia

The Georgia Department of Agriculture announced that the invasive spotted lanternfly has been detected for the first time in the Peach State. According to experts, the insects feed on plants and trees, which can impact their growth. If enough feeding occurs, the plant can suffer from stunted growth. The first sighting of the pest was in Berks County, Pennsylvania, in 2014, and it has since spread throughout much of the eastern U.S.

Potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Sara for Gulf Coast, Florida

Potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Sara for Gulf Coast, Florida

After producing feet of rain over countries in Central America, moisture associated with the remnants of Sara are expected to stream northward, increasing the chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms mid-week along the Gulf Coast. The moisture is forecast to combine with a significant frontal boundary pushing through the country.

Researchers find gophers responsible for recovery of Mount St. Helens ecosystem

Researchers find gophers responsible for recovery of Mount St. Helens ecosystem

Located in southern Washington state, Mount St. Helens is notorious for its eruption on May 18, 1980. The eruption of stratovolcano led to earthquakes and a massive landslide. University researchers evaluated how forestry practices and mammals contributed to the revegetation and ecological success of the Pumice Plains around Mount St. Helens.