This text examines the environmental setting and resulting phosphorites that formed during the Miocene, one of the major and most recent phosphogenic periods throughout the geological record. Sedimentary phosphate deposits (phosphorites) are of major commercial significance, being one of the world's most important non-renewable resources, and essential in the manufacture of phosphate fertilizers and phosphate based chemicals. An oceanographic perspective is provided by investigations of modern oceanic environments where phosphorites are presently forming. Together, the geologic and marine approaches provide a complete outlook on this important mineral resource. This is the third of four planned reference volumes that together will cover the achievements of the International Geological Correlation Programme Project 156 (Phosphates) during the ten years of the project's existence. As with the previous volumes, this will form an essential work of reference for geologists and mining engineers interested in the search for, and exploitation of, phosphate rock deposits.

The North Carolina barrier islands, a 325-mile-long string of narrow sand islands that forms the coast of North Carolina, are one of the most beloved areas to live and visit in the United States. However, extensive barrier island segments and their associated wetlands are in jeopardy. In The Battle for North Carolina's Coast, four experts on coastal dynamics examine issues that threaten this national treasure. According to the authors, the North Carolina barrier islands are not permanent. Rather, they are highly mobile piles of sand that are impacted by sea-level rise and major storms and hurricanes. Our present development and management policies for these changing islands are in direct conflict with their natural dynamics. Revealing the urgency of the environmental and economic problems facing coastal North Carolina, this essential book offers a hopeful vision for the coast's future if we are willing to adapt to the barriers' ongoing and natural processes. This will require a radical change in our thinking about development and new approaches to the way we visit and use the coast. Ultimately, we cannot afford to lose these unique and valuable islands of opportunity. This book is an urgent call to protect our coastal resources and preserve our coastal economy.