Breakpoint : Reckoning with America's Environmental Crises.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 205-275) and index.

Heartland. Corn off the cob -- Food versus fuel -- Where's the food? -- Don't drink that! -- Coast. Delta dawn -- Blue bayou -- The fate of a great city -- Too Little Water and Too Much. Sea level rise is dangerous -- Retreat from the coasts -- Agriculture in crisis -- Reinventing agriculture -- Epilogue: America at the crossroads.

"An insightful look at the American environmental crisis and emerging solutions from the heartland to the coasts in the era of global climate change. Eminent ecologist Jeremy B. C. Jackson and award-winning journalist Steve Chapple traveled the length of the Mississippi River interviewing farmers, fishermen, scientists, and policymakers to better understand the mounting environmental problems ravaging the United States. Along their journey, which quickly expanded to California, Florida, and New York, the pair uncovered surprising and profound connections between ecological systems and environmental crises across the country. Artfully weaving together independent research and engaging storytelling, Jackson and Chapple examine the looming threats from recent hurricanes and fires, industrial agriculture, river mismanagement, extreme weather events, drought, and rising sea levels that are pushing the country toward the breaking point of ecological and economic collapse. Yet, despite these challenges, the authors provide optimistic and practical solutions for addressing these multidimensional issues to achieve greater environmental stability, human well-being, and future economic prosperity. With a passionate call to action, they look hopefully toward emerging and achievable solutions to preserve the country's future"--Jacket.