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Transcription
The Real Mississippi is a student podcast about the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Barrier islands are an important part of the area's history and attract many visitors. However, these islands are shrinking and facing major damage from storms and human activities. This is threatening the delicate ecosystems and communities. Short-term solutions have not been effective, so long-term and sustainable actions are needed. Immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage. Despite the risks, visitors can still experience the beauty of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The soothing sound of the waves crashing against the sand on the beach. The bellowing of the boats. The smell of the salty air. Hi, I'm Jennifer Bui and this is The Real Mississippi, a student podcast written, recorded, and produced by students at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is an exciting and bustling destination that attracts diverse visitors, from locals to tourists, shrimpers, and casino enthusiasts. Where the visitors are looking to immerse themselves in the area's rich history and traditions or simply seeking a relaxing vacation, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has everything. However, there are a few tourist attractions that first-time visitors should make time for in their itinerary. The barrier islands. Booking a ferry service can easily land one on Deer Island, just 30 minutes away from the coastline. Instead of the honking of the cars of the busy street, one can experience the blissful sounds of the chirping birds and the sandy feeling between one's toes on the island. However, there may not be a choice to visit in the next few years. In fact, over the years, many Mississippi barrier islands have shrunken in size. This has caused major losses and damages to both the ecosystem and the coast. Barrier islands play an important role in maintaining Mississippi's structural integrity, but as the waves that condition stand, these islands will cease to exist, causing many severe problems. This will be the part where you add in Davina's response. However, due to dangerous weather and sea level changes, barrier islands are consistently eroding, growing, and moving. Barrier islands are susceptible victims of storm damage due to their sandy composition, which is less stable compared to the mainland. Low elevations make it easier for water to wash over the islands. Savage storms can also create breaches, forming an opening in a barrier island. There are many reasons for these formational changes in barrier islands, and recently so, but a large factor that plays into the reason for the rapid changes are human activities. For example, ship traffic, hard levies, and infrastructure projects have all accelerated the disappearance of these islands. The next question we'll answer will go right here. Barrier islands are home to seabirds, shellfish, and nesting sea turtles. The alarming rate of the loss of barrier islands poses a threat to the delicate balance of these ecosystems. Unfortunately, some attempts to solve the issue of barrier island loss have only provided short-term solutions. It's important that we look for more sustainable and long-term solutions to protect these essential features of coastal regions and maintain the balance of delicate ecosystems. Barrier islands are unique and beautiful features of coastal regions around the world, playing an important role in protecting ecosystems and communities from extreme weather. Unfortunately, there are alarming rates of loss in significant certain… Barrier islands are unique and beautiful features of coastal regions around the world, playing an important role in protecting ecosystems and communities from extreme weather events. The alarming rate of loss is a severe threat to the delicate balance of ecosystems, education, historical landmarks, and populated areas. Immediate action is necessary to address this pressing issue before irreversible damage is done. Proactive action must be taken to preserve these vital natural resources for future generations. Although the barrier islands are at risk, you can still visit them today and experience the rich destination that is the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I'm Jennifer Bui and this is The Real Mississippi. This episode has been produced by Seth Armstead. If you'd like to learn more about the top-rated school in Mississippi and one of the best public high schools in the nation, go to themsms.org, that's T-H-E-M-S-M-S dot O-R-G.
