Continental maps of noise exposure and its consequences for ecosystem function and human experience

Continental maps of natural sound levels and current noise exposure have been produced for the continental United States at 270 meter resolution. These maps and the measurements that underlie them testify to the ubiquity of noise exposure. Noise diminishes the diversity, density, and breeding success of wildlife communities; it also affects pollination, seed dispersal, and other ecological processes. In humans, chronic noise has consequences for health as well as enjoyment of outdoor environments. Noise maps combine with other geospatial models to identify opportunities for mitigation, and noise mitigation is a significant tool to fortify the ecological integrity of protected areas and enhance the quality of human experience.